There are diverse and conflicting opinions surrounding the Saudi International controversy. The tournament, which was originally a part of the European Tour, is now on the schedule for the Asian tour. Amidst rising concerns about whether golfers should be allowed to play there or not, Rory McIlroy reveals his stance.

What is the entire debate about?

Many golfers have expressed their desire to go on board with the event scheduled from February 3-6 and the field is glittering with some of the top names from the PGA Tour. Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Xander Schauffele, and Bryson DeChambeau have already committed from their end. However, that’s exactly where the issue emerges.

When a golfer plays outside their home circuit, they’re required to run it by authorities first and seek permission for the same. In this case, the PGA Tour has 30 days before the event’s first round to grant the releases. Usually, it’s not a big issue, as golfers often go back and forth between the PGA Tour and European Tour.

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However, when talking about the Greg Norman-led venture- which stands to pose a direct threat to the tour- it’s a concerning topic. We don’t know for sure whether the players will be permitted, and the debate is ongoing.

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Rory McIlroy defends golfers rights to play wherever they want

From Phil Mickelson to Tiger Woods, many golfers have come forward to share their thoughts on the same. In the most recent one, Rory McIlroy said, “We’re independent contractors, and we should be able to play where we want to play.”

“So in my opinion I think the tour should grant releases. It’s an Asian Tour event, it’s an event that has OWGR rankings, I don’t see any reason why they wouldn’t. I do see reasons why they wouldn’t grant releases, but I think if they’re trying to do what’s best for their members and their members are going to a place other than the PGA Tour and being able to earn that money,” he added.

Revealing his preference on the matter, he added, “My personal choice is not to do that, but obviously a lot of players are doing that, and I think it’s fair to let them do that.”

What are your views on the matter?

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