Tom McKibbin is one of the main names on the golf scene, ever since he started to be associated with LIV Golf and going on the controversial Tour. The young golfer, born in Northern Ireland, is one of the greatest potentials, and many consider his idol to be fellow countryman Rory McIlroy.
It was Rory who addressed the rumors about Tom in a media interview, stressing that he knew the 22-year-old when he was 10 or 11 years old.
"I've known Tom since he was 10, 11 years old and as soon as he soon as he got the offer he rang me. I'd just landed in New Zealand and we had a really good conversation," said McIlroy, as quoted by BBC.
"I said to him, 'If I were in your shoes I would make a different choice to the one you're thinking of making'."
Rory McIlroy: I wouldn't make that decision
The 35-year-old golfer is aware that by going to LIV Golf, Tom can create huge problems for himself and lose the opportunity to perform at the Ryder Cup and majors, which is the biggest dream of every golfer. Rory McIlroy admits that he is not in his shoes, believing that the young golfer has the right to make the best decision for himself.
"What he potentially is sacrificing and giving up with access to majors, potential Ryder Cup spot, depending on how he would play - I don't think anything's official yet... If I were in his position, which I think I have been before, and had his potential I wouldn't make that decision.
But I'm not him. I'm not in his shoes. He's a grown man at this point and can make his own decisions."
Looking at the statements of LIV Golfers, one can feel that most of them are disappointed with the treatment and the fact that they are still not entitled to OWGR points. The Northern Irishman is convinced that McKibbin has the potential to be a top 10 golfer. However, going to LIV Golf would change a lot for him.
"Whatever way he chooses to go he's going to live with it, which is totally fine.
We all see the potential that he has, and I definitely think he can be a top-10 player in the world. But obviously his ranking won't show that for the next couple years if he makes one decision over another."- Rory concluded.
