McIlroy Spared from Media Obligations by Fellow Golfer Johnson Wagner at PGA Championship Event
Rory McIlroy Steps Away from Media Amid Equipment Controversy
In a defiant move, golf pro Rory McIlroy decided to skip the media circus throughout the 2025 PGA Championship, leaving some fans and commentators baffled. The five-time Major champion's decision came after weeks of frustration over a leaked report about his controversial driver and the endless media scrutiny he faced due to his disappointing performance[1][4].
McIlroy's withdrawal from press engagement stirred controversy among spectators, who demanded answers from the usually media-friendly golfer. Some fans accused him of being unprofessional, especially since he appeared only post-good rounds, never after setbacks[3].
with great understanding, Golf Channel analyst Johnson Wagner defended McIlroy's decision. According to Wagner, McIlroy had more than enough on his plate during a Major championship, and the constant clamor for pictures, autographs, and interviews was a significant distraction[2]. He emphasized McIlroy's unyielding grace in the face of pressure, especially when preparing for a Major tournament[2].
However, the real cause behind McIlroy's media blackout was a report originating from Sirius XM, stating that his gamer driver had failed a USGA test[1]. Despite denials from the PGA of America, USGA, and McIlroy himself, rumors about the issue persisted throughout the tournament[1].
The PGA of America issued a statement confirming that the USGA was indeed testing players' clubs. However, they guaranteed the confidentiality of the results[1]. A similar scenario unfolded for tournament winner Scottie Scheffler, whose driver was found non-conforming after testing[1]. This revelation sparked confusion and bewilderment among golf enthusiasts, as only a third of the field's drivers had been tested[1].
Johnson Wagner supported Scheffler's approach to the matter, praising him for being proactive in finding a backup driver well before the leaked results[2]. Wagner believed that testing drivers during Major weeks was unreasonable and detrimental to a player's performance[2]. He voiced his approval for McIlroy's silence in the face of the controversy, as it allowed him to focus on his game without the added pressure of addressing the rumors[2].
Post-tournament, McIlroy seems to be taking a breather from golf, having been spotted in Bilbao ahead of the Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur[5]. Additionally, 2025 also sees McIlroy making his first professional start in India at the India Championship on the DP World Tour, set to take place from 16-19th October[5]. The Masters champion is expected to headline the event, making it an exciting addition to his scheduled tournaments.
McIlroy, despite being a regular with media engagements, chose to avoid them during the 2025 PGA Championship, sparking speculation that his decision might be due to the ongoing controversy surrounding his gamer driver, which was rumored to have failed a USGA test, as reported by Sirius XM. Tennis and golf aficionados anxiously await his return to the sports scene, particularly in the India Championship on the DP World Tour, where he is expected to be the headline attraction.
