Tom ignores Rory’s advice & wins Hong Kong Open in style

TOM McKIBBIN declared his choice to join LIV Golf and “back myself" has paid off with his remarkable triumph at the Hong Kong Open - earning him a maiden Masters invitation.

- BY NEIL MCLEMAN

Rory Mcllroy (inset) had cautioned his fellow Northern Irishman that he was “potentially sacrificing” opportunities to compete in the Majors and Ryder Cup by signing with the Saudi-funded circuit in January.

McKibbin, 22, had secured a PGA Tour card for 2025 in Dubai last November and impressed in January's Team Cup for prospective Ryder Cup contenders. However, after disregarding Mcllroy's guidance and committing to LIV Golf, McKibbin will now accompany the title holder for his Masters campaign in April following his commanding seven-stroke triumph on his Asian Tour debut.

He also climbs into the world’s top 100 with two tournaments remaining on the DP World Tour ~ beginning in Abu Dhabi this week - positioning himself as a contender for the 2027 European squad at Adare Manor.