Rory McIlroy says LIV Golf isn’t for him.

And the four-time major winner has at least one reason why.

He engaged in a conversation with ESPN’s Marty Smith on Wednesday, a day before the commencement of this week’s Arnold Palmer Invitational. Smith later revealed on Twitter that he had inquired McIlroy about his thoughts on joining LIV. This interaction is significant as McIlroy appears to be warming up to the league as it enters its third season.

McIlroy’s aversion to the tour was particularly evident on June 7 last year, just a day after the PGA Tour and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, the financial supporter of LIV, had tentatively agreed on a funding deal. Up until then, McIlroy had been viewed as a spokesperson for the Tour in its battle against LIV. In his statements following the agreement, he emphasized that it was not a merger between the leagues.

McIlroy expressed his discontent with LIV twice, using the word “hated”. Despite this, there was an expectation of uneasiness following the agreement brokered by Tour commissioner Jay Monahan.

McIlroy elaborated on his feelings, stating that it seemed hypocritical to rally everyone against something and then partner with that very thing. He acknowledged the contradiction in his stance and the situation.

Subsequently, McIlroy faced numerous inquiries on the matter but engaged less in the discussions. However, during an interview on the Stick to Football podcast in early January, his tone appeared to have shifted.

Among McIlroy’s quotes:

— “I was maybe a little judgmental of the guys who went to LIV Golf at the start. I think it was a bit of a mistake on my part because I now realize that not everyone is in my position or in Tiger Woods’ position.”

— “I’ve gone through the last two years with this altruistic approach where I’ve looked at the world the way I’ve wanted to see it. Ultimately, you can say what you want and do what you want, but at the end of the day, you’re not going to be able to change people’s minds. You’re never going to make them decide based on what you say.”

— “I think what LIV has done, it’s exposed the flaws in the system of golf … I think what LIV and the Saudis have exposed is that you’re asking for millions of dollars to sponsor these events, and you’re not able to guarantee that the players are going to show up. I can’t believe the PGA Tour has done so well for so long.”

— “I wouldn’t say I’ve lost the fight against LIV, but I’ve just accepted the fact that this is part of our sport now.”

Did McIlroy’s viewpoint alter? Was he contemplating a transfer to LIV? Chubby Chandler, McIlroy’s former agent, sparked that speculation in an interview with bunkered.co.uk last month. Furthermore, during an exchange prior to the Cognizant Classic last week, McIlroy was asked about his recent communication with Chubby Chandler.

In response, the reporter and an observer chuckled, prompting a smile from McIlroy, before the reporter proceeded with the question.

Reporter: “What do you believe prompted him to make those comments aside from seeking attention?

McIlroy: “I believe he is working on a book, so that could be a factor. I had a conversation with Chubby — I may have seen him in the Middle East earlier this year. Therefore, he might be privy to some information. It’s hard to say for sure.”

McIlroy chuckled at the remark. Subsequently, the journalist posed another inquiry.

Reporter: “Initially, he mentioned that there was a high likelihood of you going to LIV, but towards the end, he reduced it to 10 percent. Therefore, is there a specific percentage that…”.

McIlroy, following a sip of water, remarked, “Possibly somewhere in between.

It’s hard to say.” He then flashed another smile.

Was his response simply lighthearted banter? It could be. Was there a hint of discomfort? Slightly.

ESPN’s Smith inquired McIlroy about LIV during their conversation this week. It is worth mentioning that McIlroy did not hold a press conference prior to the Arnold Palmer tournament.

Smith took to Twitter to share a 49-second video of their exchange. In his tweet, he mentioned that he directly asked McIlroy about his thoughts on joining LIV.

This was the response:

No one was more vehemently against LIV Golf than Rory McIlroy. No one defended the PGA Tour more aggressively.
From afar, his stance seems to have softened. Speculation ensued.
At Bay Hill Weds I asked him directly what consideration he’s given to joining LIV:

“It’s not for me.” pic.twitter.com/1rQiq6X94g

— Marty Smith (@MartySmithESPN) March 7, 2024

“It’s not for me,” he began. “It’s the — I’m too much of a traditionalist. I’m too much of a — I’m steeped in the — I love winning golf tournaments and looking at the trophy and seeing that Sam Snead won this trophy or Ben Hogan or Gene Sarazen or Jack Nicklaus or Gary Player or Tiger Woods or Nick Faldo, whoever it is, the people that came before me. Like that to me is a big deal in our game.

“If we were to all put our heads together and be like, OK, what can we do to all come back together and move forward and be a little more cohesive, then I would sort of be for that.”

What should we make of McIlroy’s most recent LIV response?

The three pieces of information provided are not particularly surprising or groundbreaking. It is clear that LIV is not his preferred choice. However, there is an indication of support for reunification, as he values the historical aspect.

Nonetheless, there is also an acknowledgement of appreciation for Smith’s direct inquiry.

And McIlroy answering.