McIlroy prepares to grow game globally

Even before he became only the sixth man to complete golf’s career Grand Slam with a win for the ages at the Masters Tournament in April, Rory Mcllroy already had a voice in the game, and a big one too.

- CHUAH CHOO CHIANG

He often spoke with candour, boldness and purpose on issues that mattered especially during his time as a policy board member on the PGA Tour, and along with Tiger Woods, he is among a rare few who is highly respected by his peers and sport's administrators.

The main thing is — Mcllroy walks the talk.

When LIV Golf, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, emerged onto the scene a few years ago and lured some big stars with millions, the World No.2 from Northern Ireland stayed loyal to the PGA Tour and backed it up with his reasons.

“It's not for me,” Mcllroy said candidly. “I’m too much of a traditionalist. 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, Tiger Woods, Nick [Faldo], whoever it is. The people that came before me.”