News
Rory McIlroy won’t watch Tiger-Phil match, claims the event has “missed the mark”
Last month, Justin Thomas stated that there was zero chance of him watching Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson battle it out in Las Vegas for $9 million. Now, Rory McIlroy is the latest Tour player to say he won’t be tuning in.
McIlroy, while speaking on Tuesday at the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai, told reporters that Phil Mickelson had even offered to cover the pay-per-view fee for the Irishman when they discussed the match during a FedEx Cup playoff event earlier in the year. But McIlroy made it clear today that he wasn’t in the least bit interested in the event, stating
“Look, if they had a done it 15 years ago, it would have been great. But nowadays, it’s missed the mark a little bit.”
McIlroy’s comments should not be surprising. The 29-year-old is no stranger to speaking his mind, and we can only speculate on what exactly he meant with his statement that the showdown has “missed the mark a little bit.” If McIlroy is suggesting that this event has missed the mark due to the match airing on PPV, then he is likely to find many supporters of the game in agreement with him — the $19.99 price tag for the exhibition has not gone over well. Or, if the fact that neither player is putting up a dime of their own money for the contest is what has failed to pique McIlroy’s interest, then he is again likely to find many who agree with his view.
However, whether the showdown between Woods and Mickelson would have been a greater spectacle fifteen years ago compared to present day is debatable. Woods is currently a prohibitive favorite to win the contest on Thanksgiving Friday with odds of -225. But in 2003, an untouchable Woods against a major-less Mickelson could very well have been a mismatch.
The Match between Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson takes place on November 23 at Shadow Creek in Las Vegas.
What do you make of Mcilroy’s comments, GolfWRXers?
In our forums, one user is wondering how many birdies other players have had in a round while still failing to break par. @Lalan45, unfortunately, asked the question after a unique experience of their own.
They wrote:
“Today I managed 8 birdies but still shot even par, could have been a round to remember! What’s the most birdies you’ve made in a round and still didn’t break par?”
Our members in the forum shared their own experiences with successful rounds that still resulted in a score over par. Here are a few posts from the thread, but make sure to check out the entire discussion and have your say at the link below.
- kwcsports: “I’ve had 5 a few times, still shot 80+ haha.”
- jda: “I played a course for the first time, had 8 birdies, 9 doubles and an eagle. The infamous no-par round. I kept the scorecard. Every shot had a creek that I did not know about, or I was within 8-10 feet for a birdie look. To this day, I have no idea if I should be really jacked up or mad about that performance.”
- jvincent: “I think my record is either 5 or 6. Probably shot 75.”
- Instron4204: “3 birdies and shot a 92…man I suck!”
In our forums, one user is asking for thoughts on the best stock shafts offered in 2026. Stock shafts are the shafts included with a club when it’s purchased from retailers or OEMs.
@DTorres asked:
The last couple years has seen a lot of updates and additions to no upcharge stock shafts, which do you think is the best offering in 2026?
Im a bit of a shaft nerd and recently during my Members Testing with the Callaway Quantum Triple Diamond I found the updated Project X Denali Frost Black to be a fantastic stock shaft. I absolutely did not mesh well with the original Denali. Just curious what other people think are the current best Stock shaft offerings out with new models and stock Ventus options and LinQ options popping up here and there.
We were given the option for any stock shafts for our members review. I went with the 70g Black Frost 6.5 because it’s a shaft I don’t have, it’s an updated version of the original Denali and hear little about. I typically use a Diamana WB, GD VF or a HOF Raptor. I’m not saying it was neck and neck with any of those but it was a pleasant surprise I’m not accustomed to in stock shaft offerings.
Our members in the forum have been offering up their own thoughts on the best stock shafts available in 2026. Here are a few posts from the thread, but make sure to check out the entire discussion and have your say at the link below.
- rsballer10: “IMO – MCA Ka’ili White Darkwave, Tensei 1k Black/white, UST Lin-Q White. People are free to spend their money however they see fit, but for me personally the shaft catalogs these days have enough options that I don’t see the value of a $400 upcharge. I have never had a problem finding a no upcharge shaft that fits the bend profile and weight that I need. Whether the paint job is good enough or not is above my pay scale.”
- bcflyguy1: “Project X Titan Black. I’ve had one in 60TX in my Quantum TD Max for several weeks now. Have to give Titlieist their flowers for finding a way to make it available as a featured option; very shrewd bit of business and one that I suspect will be duplicated by the other companies. TT/PX have a certified banger on their hands with Titan.”
- CTG77: “Undoubtedly, it’s the Tensei 1K RIP shafts from Titleist. The Tensei line gives about 98% of the performance of a Ventus VeloCore+ shaft at a tiny fraction of the cost if you’re looking for a blue or red profile. The white is not an exact match for Ventus Black, but it’s closer to it than the non-VeloCore+ Ventus shafts that come from Callaway or formerly came from TaylorMade.”
A reminder from your friends at GolfWRX: Father’s Day is June 21. And as we do every year, we’re rounding up the best gifts for dad.
As we say every year, there’s no better golf-related Father’s Day gift than a round of golf with pops. Be it a country club or your favorite muni, take the time to get together to play 18 if you can.
Let’s get to the gifts.
Ghost Golf Qualifier Diamond Polo
We like the new polos that Ghost is offering, as the fabric and fit are so good. These new Qualifier Collection polos breathe well, are lightweight, stretch with your swing, and of course look great. You can wear them on the course, in the office, or just out at a casual event and they will fit right in.
STR8-Strip Grip Tape Remover
If your dad is an equipment aficionado and tinkers with his clubs, this tool works wonders. Removing grip tape has never been easier, just put a little head on the tape and the STR8-Strip peals it right off the shaft without any damage.
Why Golf: Putting Thing
When it comes to practice, it is good to have a purpose. This “Putting Thing” sure does it. We know from personal experience how challenging it can be and how rewarding it is on the practice green. This also provides some competition for your kiddo to see who will unload the dishwasher or do the next chore around the house.
OluKai Lae‘ahi Men’s Breathable Slip-On Shoes
Riding to and from the course in style and comfort is always a good thing. If you’re in a hurry, it’s a nice feature to slide into your shoes and get to the tee time. For the post-game shoe, at your locker or while putting your clubs away in the car. Nice to slide into a shoe that looks good anywhere. Pair that with meeting the family for dinner, no need to change!
Therabody Theragun Relief
A little wellness goes a long way. Keeping loose is a good way to go when it comes to the weekend game or treatment during the week. If there is a little ache or pain, the Theragun is there to help out. Help loosen up the back for a pre-game warm-up or cool-down.
World Cup golf apparel
Something for the soccer dads. Embrace the World Cup fever this summer on the course with custom gear to support the nation of your choice.
FootJoy Pro SL spikeless golf shoes
Give the old man a break and save his feet with the Footjoy Pro SL Men’s Spikeless Golf Shoes for some added comfort on the course.
Bushnell Wingman 2 GPS speaker
Combine all the hits as well as some game improvement with the Wingman 2 Golf GPS Speaker by getting audible distance readings from 38,000+ courses worldwide through the Wingman 2 remote or speaker.
Personalized Titleist Pro V1 golf balls
The No. 1 ball in golf is a safe bet, and the Pro V1 fits the largest chunk of the bell curve if you don’t know what ball pops plays. Add personalization for a, well, personal touch!
- GolfWRX may earn a commission for purchases made through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
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Bill
Nov 15, 2018 at 11:00 am
Rory doesn’t get it. Who would pay to watch Rory – Spieth. Or Rose – Koepka. It’s just good golf. A game I don’t have.
Gerry Elbridge
Nov 15, 2018 at 12:42 am
“It’s missed the mark”…so has Rory’s wedge game as of late.
Alphonzo Davidson Jr
Nov 14, 2018 at 10:20 pm
So what they are pass their prime! How many prize fighters have fought pass their prime. Do you watch the senior tour? YES you guys love watching Couples, Daly and others. Enjoy the spectacle for what it is an exhibition. The money, the sponsors are paying that. $20 bucks that’s less than you would pay for a ball cap. If you play golf you have some interest. So enjoy it.
There’s two common things in golfers that runs deep sandbagging handicaps and CHEAPNESS give it a rest.
James
Nov 14, 2018 at 5:16 pm
Rory hasn’t won much lately. I’m thinking he just can’t afford the PPV.
Tom
Nov 14, 2018 at 4:00 pm
After those pics from Tiger’s roadside arrest, I would pay to watch him drive in a demolition derby….”Tiger, Tiger, where is grampa’s automobile?”
Jim K
Nov 14, 2018 at 3:08 pm
Might have been interesting if they had a 2-man best ball match with Tiger & Phil v. two of the younger stars (Spieth & Thomas?). Players can take a lot more chances in best ball and there’s a lot more strategy involved.
Robert Edgar
Nov 14, 2018 at 2:26 pm
Boring. You could not pay me enough to watch this. A money grab from the suckers that watch.
Buster Douglas
Nov 14, 2018 at 12:55 pm
Rory is jealous. Its that simple. He only wishes he was in on it. P.S. Gianni change that photo, you look like a fruit.
Curt
Nov 14, 2018 at 12:08 pm
All I know is it’s worth watching without McIlroy and Dechambooo in it. As far as I’m concerned there’s no such thing as a good golfer anymore. There skill is all about modern equipment.
Dingo
Nov 14, 2018 at 12:21 pm
Tell me again Curt, how many extra chromosomes do you have?
Chuck
Nov 14, 2018 at 11:45 am
Rory said 10 years ago, not 15… Anyhow, it’s a boring match from two hasbeens. Weak sisters trying to relive their glory days. Wasted money and those watching are fools wasting their money.
kevin
Nov 14, 2018 at 12:21 pm
LOL its twenty bucks….ironically on the same day as most people wait in long lines to buy crap they don’t need.
to each their own, but 20 bucks for 4 hours of entertainment isnt a problem. this should be more entertaining than a typical match. there will be banter, side bets, drone footage, …
but hey, enjoy those black friday lines
Jack Nash
Nov 14, 2018 at 11:37 am
Rory is 100% correct. Two old guys reminiscing about the old days when this event might have been watchable, but certainly not now. This event could be similar to Gerardo’s Al Capones Vault.
Greg V
Nov 14, 2018 at 9:18 am
Rory just got dropped from Phil’s Christmas card list, which is fine by me.
The match is a stupid idea, and tone deaf with the destruction going on in California.
Mike
Nov 14, 2018 at 10:32 am
What? Does that mean the NFL should cancel all their games until a California wild fire is put out? I don’t think you should go to work until every immigrant child is reunited with their parents. There’s always a tragedy happening somewhere.
HearingImpaired
Nov 16, 2018 at 3:20 pm
Tone deaf with the destruction in California? I do hope you’re kidding, otherwise that’s quite possibly the most nonsensically self-righteous nonsense I’ve ever read. Good grief.
steveie
Nov 14, 2018 at 9:17 am
yes, would have been great anytime before 2008, and if they put up their own $$$. could not pay me to watch, LOL.
James Awad
Nov 14, 2018 at 1:37 pm
Funny …. I think the only way I might watch this greedfest is IF it was free & they WERE playing for their own money 🙂 – like 20% of their bank account death match…
JThunder
Nov 14, 2018 at 1:01 am
The golf world can think of nothing better to do with $9 million than have two guys at the end of their career play with no gallery and likely no TV audience… It’s a bit sick.
How about they both pony up $4.5 mil (nothing to either of them) and the money goes to the winner’s cause. SoCal wildfires? Education? Homeless? Vets without healthcare? Environment?
Johnny Penso
Nov 14, 2018 at 12:31 am
I’m all for people being free to speak their mind but IMO this is one of those things where if you have nothing nice to say, then shut the hell up. I don’t see what purpose it serves for a leading player in the game to throw shade at a one off event that he isn’t even participating in. Is your sport better off for you having trashed the event? Shut up, say it’s fine and you’ll probably watch it and hope it takes off and turns into a full on match play type event and you get invited at some point. Or don’t. It’ll live or die by it’s own merit and throwing shade on it before it’s even happened just makes you look bitter and envious and attention seeking.
Chilly P
Nov 13, 2018 at 8:58 pm
cool how you made the case that it was a stupid idea 15 years ago too. this is a yawner. No one cares. made more odious by the purse. makes them look bad. hopefully they will salvage a little face and donate the cash. feel like this will actually be awkward to watch.
Gunter Eisenberg
Nov 13, 2018 at 6:56 pm
Rory’s right. For me, if it was 17 years ago it would’ve been really relevant. Back then Tiger and Phil weren’t be best of friends back then and really wanted to beat each other up. I personally thought both were at the peak of their careers back then too. Remember, they were the final pair at the 2001 Masters. Go watch videos of it on Youtube. You could feel the tension between them and I don’t think they spoke a word to each other during that round.
Brian
Nov 13, 2018 at 5:50 pm
The winner gets 9 million for one round of golf. The Fed Ex cup winner, which the PGA tries to promote all year, has a playoff system, and is supposed to be the ultimate goal outside of majors, gets 10 million. That’s why the tour players hate it. It makes a mockery of their sport and it so called best player for that year.
DB
Nov 14, 2018 at 1:34 pm
You’re exactly right. I don’t plan on paying the PPV fee, but I’m sure many will given that Tiger and Phil are still extremely popular. The tour players giving the match a negative review are just upset that they aren’t in on the 9 million. You can guarantee if they were invited to the match they would suddenly think it’s a great idea.
8thehardway
Nov 13, 2018 at 5:26 pm
Here’s what would draw me in… They each get $1/2M to show up and $4M to bet, say $1/2M minimum, $1M max, one press allowed on the back 9, all bets must be called.
Bonus adrenaline rush – give caddies $1/2M each to bet with each other with $1K minimum.
larrybud
Nov 13, 2018 at 4:48 pm
It’s even more than that. I don’t mind the timing, even though they’re obviously both past their prime. But the fact that it’s PPV, and that there are no crowds. I mean, the crowds is what would make it fun. Who are these guys going to talk to? Who’s going to laugh at the lame jokes?
kevin
Nov 14, 2018 at 12:28 pm
i’m guessing a small crowd of 100 or so of who’s who among celebs and media.