Lee Westwood Criticizes Rory McIlroy Over LIV Golf Rule Comments
Lee Westwood, a prominent golfer affiliated with LIV Golf, recently shared his thoughts on Rory McIlroy’s comments regarding LIV’s new 72-hole format. Westwood, at 52 years old, criticized McIlroy for what he perceives as inconsistency in his opinions on LIV Golf.
Westwood Responds to McIlroy
During an interview on talkSport’s Breakfast Show, Westwood stated, “I don’t know. I don’t pay too much attention to what Rory says, really. He’ll change his mind next week.” This statement came in direct response to McIlroy’s remarks about LIV Golf’s shift from a 54-hole to a 72-hole competition format.
McIlroy Questions LIV’s New Direction
On the previous Wednesday, McIlroy discussed the significance of LIV Golf’s change. He expressed skepticism about whether moving to 72 holes would enhance the league’s credibility in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). McIlroy remarked, “I think it’s a peculiar move because I think they could have got ranking points with three rounds.”
Concerns About OWGR Points
McIlroy highlighted challenges LIV players face in securing meaningful OWGR points due to the league’s historically weak fields. He stated, “I think what’s hard is you’ve got the LIV guys, and say potentially they get World Rankings, but because their strength of fields are going to be so weak…” This indicates his skepticism regarding the true benefits of ranking points for LIV players.
Analysis of OWGR Changes
Despite McIlroy’s doubts, a recent change to the OWGR algorithm, which introduced the “Strokes Gained World Rating,” might aid LIV players. This metric assesses not just finishing positions but also player performance relative to field strength. Thus, fewer highly-ranked competitors might not diminish the potential for LIV golfers to gain points.
LIV Golf’s Justifications for the Change
Westwood noted multiple motivations behind LIV Golf’s decision to shift to 72 holes. While securing OWGR points is one reason, he pointed out that the move caters to players’ desires for a format that better resembles major championships. “Some of the guys focused their whole season around the major championships,” Westwood explained.
Player Perspectives on Format Change
- Tyrrell Hatton, another LIV player, remarked on the initial resistance to the 72-hole format.
- Hatton confirmed that only three players initially supported the change last season.
- However, he now expresses satisfaction with the league’s new direction.
In conclusion, as LIV Golf transitions to a 72-hole format, both internal support and external skepticism continue to shape the ongoing debate within professional golf. The effects of this change, particularly in gaining recognition within the OWGR, remain to be seen.
