Recently Rory McIlroy expressed his thoughts on the possibility of hosting $6 million The Open Championship outside of the United Kingdom. The four-time major winner’s comments have sparked considerable interest and controversy in the golfing world.

Rory McIlroy is also participating in this week’s Irish Open. The Irish golfer expressed his trust in the governing body of golf, the R&A for them to actively explore his idea. As per him, Portmarnock in Ireland could be the potential site for this historical shift in location for the Open Championship.

Why Rory McIlroy Champions Portmarnock as an Open Championship Host?

The Portmarnock Golf Club is based in Dublin and is known for its stunning coastal location and challenging course design. Rory McIlroy enthusiastically batted for it as a potential host for the Open Championship saying the course “would be fantastic”. 

He believes its proximity to a major city, and a major airport as well as a high-quality design of the course add to its charm. He also emphasized the importance of considering other factors that might come into play with respect to this course.

He highlighted various commercial aspects, logistics and overall appeal of the course that makes it a primary location. The Open is set to be held at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland in 2025 which is the same course where Shane Lowry won six years ago.

Rory however believes Portmarnock deserves an equal chance to be holding a men’s final major event this year. Portmarnock received its eligibility to host an event after a historic vote in 2021 which went on to allow women members for the first time in this club’s history.

From Male-Only Club to Hosting Important Golf Events

Following women being permitted, nine women were elected as full-time members of the club. This membership came in the month of December and was a significant milestone in the history of the club.

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All of these efforts were a part of its effort to establish itself as a championship course. Portmarnock is also gearing up to host the 121st women’s amateur championship in 2024. Despite Rory McIlroy’s comments and the media attention attracted by his comments, the R&A have refused to comment on the issue.

The thought of the Open Championship being held outside the United Kingdom is exciting, to say the least. Rory McIlroy’s advocacy for the same has opened up new channels of debate. Do you think that the Open Championship should be held outside of the UK or should the legacy be continued?

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