Top golfer Rory McIlroy says he has “earned the right” to refuse media since the Masters

Rory McIlroy expressed that he feels he “has the right” to refuse the media whenever he wants. Apparently, he has stayed away from media interviews since winning the Masters. 

The top golfer has rejected media interviews for six major rounds straight, which included the whole PGA Championship and the start of the U.S. Open. He now wants to choose when and how he speaks, especially after issues between him and the media in the past. 

At the PGA Championships, the golfer finished the match with a three-over, 14 shots behind the winner, Scottie Scheffler

McIlroy has been having difficulties on the court since his win at Augusta. However, McIlroy spoke to the media at Oakmont. When the media asked whether his poor form in his recent plays was the reason why he avoided interviews in his previous majors, he said, “No, not really… It’s more a frustration with you guys.” 

“I’m just, yeah, I don’t know. I have, I’ve been totally available for the last few years, and I’m not saying- maybe not you guys, but maybe more just the whole thing,” he added. 

Moreover, when asked if the “leak” at Quail Hollow and the driver issue—where his driver was tested and found guilty of breaking the rules, and it was caught by some reporters when it was supposed to be a secret —contributed, McIlroy admitted that it was part of the reason. He shared, “I mean, that was a part of it. Yeah, that was a part of it. But it’s not as if- like at Augusta, I skipped you guys on Thursday, so yeah, again… It’s not out of the ordinary. I’ve done it before; I’m just doing it a little more often.”

When the athlete was reminded that he helped the PGA Tour because of his media appearances, McIlroy agreed and remarked: “I feel like I’ve earned the right to do whatever I want to do, yeah.” 

“No, I’m not daring them to do anything. I hope they don’t change it because… It’s a nice luxury to have… But I’m just pointing out the fact that we have the ability to do it,” he said. 

PGA Tour players are not required by the sport’s rules to talk to the media after their matches. However, it is expected of top players like Rory McIlroy. He has also been a spokesperson for the tour, so many people were looking forward to his media appearances.