Padraig put politics into perspective

RORY MCILROY has been on a spectacular roll this year after opting to dodge the ongoing golf politics - as advised by Padraig Harrington (above).

- BY MARK WHILEY

Mcllroy has had an incredible start to 2025, bagging the Players Championship before the coveted Masters Green Jacket to finally complete his collection of major titles.

Following a period where he became a prominent figure against the Saudi-backed breakaway LIV Golf series, Mcllroy has toned down his objections and instead called for unity in the game.

He stepped down from his role on the PGA Tour's policy board in November 2023 but was snubbed when he tried to return as a player-director in early 2024, which Harrington believes was a blessing in disguise.

The three-time major champion told the Golf Channel at the time: "It takes a lot of time, dedication and sacrifice to play this game at this level. The best thing that could have happened is Rory not getting back on that board.

"He was being soft by going back to it. It's not the distraction he needs. He needs to be out there playing golf."

And Mcllroy has clearly scaled back his involvement in the political disputes within the sport, as negotiations between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) continue.

Mcllroy, speaking last weekend at the Truist Championship, said he just wants to focus on his game.

He said: "[I'm] certainly not involved too much in the politics of everything.