After his first loss at the US Open to Bryson DeChambeau, missing the cut at the Open Championship, and then missing out on gold at the Olympics, Rory McIlroy’s 2024 season has been heartbreaking so far. As he sets his sights on a FedExCup Playoffs victory, the Irishman has something to say before the tournament begins.

The St. Jude Championship will commence from August 15–18. Ahead of the first round at TPC Southwind, McIlroy was asked about his thoughts on the tournament’s no-cut format. As a response, he said, “I love this format because if it wasn’t this format, then none of us would have a chance against Scottie because he’s so far ahead. So I really like this format,” while admiring the #1 golfer for his performances so far.

Taking ‘Player of the Year’ into account, he further added, “Is it the fairest reflection of who’s been the best player of the year? Probably not. But I think at this point we’re not in for totally fair, we’re in for entertainment and for trying to put on the best product we possibly can.” While players are indeed competing for the $18 million prize at the tournament, McIlroy also recognizes that the format is designed with a greater focus on the fans rather than the golfers. And the golfers are also trying to deliver ideal performances to make it more entertaining for the community.

The Irishman finished at T5 at the Paris Olympics with 265, 15-under-par, and was unable to finish on the podium. Meanwhile, Scheffler started his first round with a 67 and struggled to take the lead by the end of the third round. However, a bogey-free final round with nine birdies made all the difference, and he made a sensational comeback to claim gold for the USA.

Rory McIlroy has won the FedExCup Playoffs twice, in 2019 and 2022. While trying for the third title, he finds it reset and says, “I like this format. It sort of feels like it’s a bit of a reset after the regular season. Everyone is not quite on a level playing field, but it feels a little more like that.” While #3 finds the no-cut format fair, Scheffler has something else to say.

Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy aren’t on the same page

Although not this year, Scheffler shared his thoughts on the format last year. After completing his second round, the 28-year-old was asked about his thoughts on the format to identify the golfer of the year. “I wouldn’t say that it is the best format to identify the best golfer for the year. As players, I think it’s not the best identifier of who is playing the best throughout the year,” said the 2x major champion, sharing his thoughts.

Scottie Scheffler also acknowledged the fact that the tournament is for TV and also took the hefty prize money into account. However, from the POV of a golfer, he doesn’t find it ideal. “It’s pretty nice. And we’re playing for a lot of money this week, and I’m very grateful for that. But as far as identifying the best player throughout the year, I don’t think it’s the best format,” he said while concluding his answer. Although any other pro hasn’t talked anything about this format these two seem to have opposite opinions.

What are your thoughts on the no-cut format? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!