Rory McIlroy’s recent comments at the Masters highlighted his stance on media obligations. When he stated he wasn’t required to engage with the press, he clearly meant it. A broader conversation has emerged on the tour regarding players’ responsibility to communicate with the media and fans, regardless of their performance. Collin Morikawa became the focal point of this debate after he chose to skip media obligations following a near miss at Bay Hill. He defended his decision, despite criticism from notable golf media figures who deemed his actions as entitled.
Rory McIlroy also supported Morikawa during a press conference this week, arguing that since players aren’t contractually bound to speak with the press, it shouldn’t be an expectation. He demonstrated this by bypassing reporters after his first round at the 2025 Masters.
“With every other athlete, whether it be in the NBA, NFL, they’re obligated to speak to you guys after a game. We’re not.”
Rory McIlroy on the ongoing debate about the media’s access to golfers after finishing their rounds. pic.twitter.com/cRhArfg0pa
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 8, 2025
McIlroy initially played well, reaching -4 on the 15th hole. However, his round deteriorated after a chip shot on the famous Par 5 landed in a pond, leading to a double bogey. After another double on the 17th, what began as a promising pursuit of a career grand slam ended with him shooting an even par 72, leaving him seven shots behind Justin Rose after round one.
Rory McIlroy was 4-under (T2) in the middle of the fairway on No. 15.
He ends the day at even par (T26) following two double bogeys in a three-hole stretch. pic.twitter.com/HgiZSWUltZ
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) April 10, 2025
Rather than discussing his round’s highs and lows with the press, McIlroy headed straight to the practice area, as noted by Bob Harig of Sports Illustrated, who reported, “McIlroy declined to speak to reporters afterward and headed for the practice area.” This behavior is surprising given McIlroy’s prominent role in the golf scene over the last few years, especially as a public leader of the PGA Tour amidst the challenges posed by LIV Golf.
This situation unfolds against the backdrop of Justin Thomas and others advocating for golfers to be more approachable in order to grow the game, especially given the ongoing tension with LIV Golf and its financial allure. The success of TGL in its inaugural season demonstrated the value of player engagement, as it encouraged accessibility and openness during broadcasts.
Rory skipping media means we don’t get a bunch of answers about this. For instance:
-What happened on the tee shot that had you this far back?
-Were you expecting 15 green to potentially be firmer than the others?
-Did you intend for your shot into 15 to come in this low?… https://t.co/U6s8TcCjzB— No Laying Up (@NoLayingUp) April 11, 2025
As a founding member of TGL, Rory McIlroy should recognize the importance of engaging with the media and fans, beyond mere obligations. Unfortunately, his commitment to such engagement will likely need to wait until after a day of strong finishes at Augusta National.
