McKibbin's plan to LIV in the moment is vindicated

MASTERFUL HONG KONG TITLE TRIGGERS MAJOR INVITES

- BY NEIL MCLEMAN

TOM MCKIBBIN claimed his decision to join LIV Golf and “back myself” had been rewarded with his stunning victory at the Hong Kong Open - and a first invitation to The Masters.

Rory McIlroy had warned his fellow Northern Irishman that he was “potentially sacrificing” playing the Majors and Ryder Cup by joining the Saudi-backed league in January.

McKibbin, 22, had earned a PGA Tour card for 2025 in Dubai last November and starred in January's Team Cup for potential Ryder Cup players.

But after ignoring McIlroy’s advice and signing for LIV Golf, McKibben will now join the defending champion for his Masters defence in April after a seven-shot win on his Asian Tour debut.