Four-time PGA Tour winner Kevin Kisner has openly criticized Rory McIlroy over the latter’s recent appearance at the DP World Tour event in India. Kisner accused McIlroy of not being sincere about his intention to grow the game of golf in India.
In the run-up to the DP World India Championship, McIlroy participated in the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in New Delhi. He expressed hopes that his participation in the event would promote golf in the region.
Kisner, however, was not convinced by McIlroy’s statements. He suggested that McIlroy’s real motivation for playing in India was the lucrative appearance fee. Kisner voiced his opinions on the Fore Play podcast, where he said, “He doesn’t want to globally expand in India; he wants to get his 10 million bucks and go play in India.”
McIlroy, known for his straightforwardness, admitted that he had not seen Kisner’s remarks prior to being asked about them after the tournament’s final round. He defended his presence, stating that receiving payment for participating in tournaments can coexist with genuine efforts to promote golf in emerging markets.
“Two things can be true at the same time. People can get paid to come and play at a tournament, but at the same time, do it from a place of genuine interest in trying to bring the sport to another country,” McIlroy explained.
Both golfers acknowledged the appeal and business aspect of appearance fees, with Kisner admitting he would be willing to play under similar conditions for a guaranteed payday.