“I Do Like Traditions”: Rory McIlroy Goes Above and Beyond To Prove His Points, Unknowingly Drags Jessica Korda’s Name Into Dirt

The two most heralded tournaments of the women’s golf circuit and the men’s golf circuit, the Solheim Cup and the Ryder Cup follow the same format. The contest takes place over three days, from Friday until Sunday, and includes 4 foursomes and 4 four-balls on the first day, 4 foursomes and 4 four-balls again on the second day, and 12 singles (12 points) on the third day. Every match-up carries one point.

Thus, both teams fight for 28 points in all. Now, a couple of days ahead of the Ryder Cup, Rory McIlroy makes an honest admission about the format, which contradicts LPGA star Jessica Korda’s POV. 

Rory McIlroy contradicts LPGA star on Ryder Cup

Last week, the Solheim Cup concluded with Team Europe once again retaining the Cup after a 14-14 tie against Team US. But as far as the matches were concerned, Stacy Lewis’ American team gave a good account of itself.

In the first session of foursomes on Friday, Team USA showed a stellar performance with a score of 4-0. But Europe fought their way back into the contest in the remaining four sessions.  

Now, ahead of the Ryder Cup, Rory McIlroy, in a press conference, was asked about his views on tied matches. To this, the Northern Irish golfer, seemingly unaware of Jessica’s stance, answered, “I think it’s part of history and tradition. You know, I was watching the Solheim Cup last week, and obviously there was huge celebrations when Europe got to 14 and retained the Cup.”

He continued, “I think retaining it means something, and there’s certainly a historical and traditional element to it. I don’t know. I do like traditions of the game, and this competition has been around since 1927, and that’s the way they have always done it”. The Ryder Cup has also seen a few tied editions like the ones in 1969 and 1989. While Rory McIlroy prefers to follow the traditions, LPGA star Jessica Korda doesn’t. She voices her strong stance on including a play-off round in case there is a tie. 

Ties are lame, believes Jessica Korda

The Americans had lost the previous two Solheim Cup editions in 2019 and 2021, and this year they had a chance to redeem themselves. They tried their best but failed to regain the Cup. Golfer Jessica Korda, currently on a break due to her pregnancy, wanted to see an outright winner.  

Read More:Despite the Struggles of Rose Zhang, Lexi Thompson and Co, Solheim Cup US Team Falls Prey to Europe’s Strategy

Korda, who had been a part of Team USA in the past, spoke in favor of a tie-breaker hours after the result. She posted on social media, “ties are lame, pick two girls and let’s go play it off.” What do you think of the contrasting views? Let us know in the comments section below. 

Watch This Story: As Rose Zhang Lays the Groundwork For the Upcoming Solheim Cup, She Expresses Her Excitement Over Future Teammate’s Maiden PGA Tour Victory