Controversial Author Drags Rory McIlroy Into Another LIV Golf-PGA Tour Rivalry Theory, Just Days After Getting an Earful From His Friends

While the commotion that started off with Alan Shipnuck’s earlier books hasn’t completely calmed down yet, his new book is out now. The book titled “LIV and let die” touches upon everything about the Saudi-backed league. In a recent podcast that he attended, Shipnuck spoke about the relationship of LIV golfers with Rory McIlroy.

For context, a few days after the Ryder Cup, an excerpt from Shipnuck’s older book circulated on the internet. It had an anonymous note from Ryder Cup player, about Rory McIlroy. It looks like there might be more about the Irish golfer in the current book too.

Shipnuck explains the dynamic between Rory McIlroy and LIV golfers

Shipnuck, promoting his new book at the Fore Play podcast, claimed that “The guys on liv hate Rory, because he took so many personal shots at them.” He is probably referring to the alleged feuds that McIlroy shares with LIV golfers like Sergio Garcia and Patrick Reed. While we don’t exactly know if these feuds exist, we might find more on this in Shipnuck’s book, perhaps. 

The controversial writer further said, “He’s embedded in the tour financials, he has all these revenue streams that the tours has driven to him.” Shipnuck pointed out the money angle of the story and hinted at a question.

Shipnuck raised a dilemma about whether McIlroy’s loyalty toward the PGA Tour is purely based on ideals or does money matters. He also acknowledged that it might be a combination of the two. He further claimed that there was nothing wrong with it, either. 

When Shipnuck’s quote from an anonymous source went viral online, the LIV golfers did not meet it with adoration. And that adds layers to this discussion. Justin Thomas took no time to share his thoughts on alleged claims with no reliable source. But the PGA Tour pro was not alone, though. 

Read more: Owing to Recent OWGR Setback, Phil Mickelson Swats PGA Tour for Pulling Strings ‘Behind the Scenes’ Against LIV Golf

Max Homa and Brooks Koepka also chimed into the discussion when the McIlroy accusation dropped online.

What was the deal with Rory McIlroy and Alan Shipnuck

A note apparently written by a former Ryder Cup mate of Rory McIlroy, accusing of him being two-faced, was part of Alan Shipnuck’s earlier book. This note went viral online after the 2023 Ryder Cup event, and it faced some protests from golfers.

Justin Thomas elaborately condemned the callous use of anonymous quotes that are defamatory. He specifically mentioned that golfers at “the tour” were sick of this. Brooks Koepka eagerly joined the discussion and added that LIV golfers felt the same way.

Max Homa also had something quirky to say on the matter. However, he deleted his tweet after fans went off in his comment section. Then he explained how he had taken a note, not to make jokes out of serious situations anymore. 

Whether the LIV golfers hate Rory, it sure seems that the new book will have quotable excerpts finding their way online to the golf world. We can probably wait and find out! 

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