Rory McIlroy Makes Bold Call
Rory McIlroy has shocked the golf world by pulling out of the 2025 Memorial Tournament, a signature $20 million PGA Tour event hosted by Jack Nicklaus. The Northern Irishman, fresh off his fifth major title at the Masters, has chosen rest and strategic scheduling over chasing another massive payday.
A Shift in Priorities
The 36-year-old previously hinted at reducing his event load to around 22–23 per season to stay fresh. True to his word, he’s opted to skip a tournament where he’s competed every year since 2018 and has five top-10 finishes. His best was T4 in 2016. This decision ends a seven-year streak at the Memorial.
Focus on National Titles
McIlroy appears to be prioritizing national championships like the US Open, Canadian Open, and Scottish Open. He’s comfortable on Canadian soil, having won the RBC Canadian Open twice and finishing in the top 10 the last two years. This makes the event an ideal prep ground ahead of the US Open.
Support from Golf Analysts
Golf Channel’s Rex Hoggard applauded McIlroy’s decision, stating that elite players can no longer be expected to appear everywhere just for money or points. “It’s not in their DNA,” he said, praising McIlroy for sticking to his values.
Scottie Scheffler Sets the Example
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler made a similar move recently, skipping the Truist Championship before winning the PGA Championship. He learned from his poor US Open showing in 2024, where a lack of rest left him finishing T41—his worst major performance after making the cut.
Are We Seeing a New Trend?
With two of the biggest names in golf now prioritizing major success over massive purses, the PGA Tour could see a shift in how its top stars approach scheduling. As majors draw closer, expect more pros to follow McIlroy and Scheffler’s lead.
Conclusion
McIlroy’s absence from the Memorial Tournament may disappoint fans, but it signals a smarter, more focused approach to peak at golf’s most important stages. With the US Open looming, this could be a championship-winning strategy.