The PGA Tour has approved modifications for 2024 that will introduce smaller fields for events reserved for the top 50 competitors in the FedEx Cup standings from the previous season.
The Majors, The Players, and FedEx Cup playoffs will not be affected by the reduction of field sizes to 70-78 participants in these events.
Moreover, five spots will be available for performance in undesignated competitions.
McIlroy argued that the “aspirational” adjustments that would be implemented for 2024 do not “reward mediocrity” in a speech he gave prior to the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
“It’s not like there haven’t been no-cut contests on the PGA Tour. Since I’ve been on tour for the past 15 years, we’ve had no-cut events,” McIlroy stated.
“When LIV arrived, the no-cut issue suddenly gained a lot of attention. That was kind of the catalyst for the entire conversation surrounding it.
“But, in my opinion, it ensures that the best players will be present for four days, and I am definitely not one to reward mediocrity.
“We must maintain the reputation of this Tour as the most prestigious in the world.”
Billy Horschel also hopes that the adjustments won’t cause further “division” on the PGA Tour and will instead be viewed as an “opportunity” for players.
“When the best players gathered in Delaware, there has been discord, and players have inquired as to what is happening,” according to Horschel.
“They believed that a small group of players influenced the majority of players’ decisions.
“I hope there isn’t a split and that once everything is out in the open, everyone can recognise the potential that is available.”
However, the news has drawn criticism from LIV and its athletes, like Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood, who feel that no-cut competitions, like those organised by LIV, have historically been misrepresented by those on the PGA Tour.
LIV Golf tweeted in response to the PGA Tour’s announcement: “Imitation is the highest form of flattery. PGA Tour, congratulations. Greetings from the future.
Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Congratulations PGA Tour. Welcome to the future.#LIVGolf
— LIV Golf (@livgolf_league) March 1, 2023
Players began to respond to this as well, with Poulter commenting on social media: “Oh, my, my. When will people realise what has been happening for so long?
Oh my my my…. When will the penny drop with so many of what’s actually happened here. 🤷🏼♂️ It really doesn’t take a 🚀 👩🏼🔬 to work out. And sounds very similar to another product that’s been spoken so badly about by Media and commentators. I’m all ears now 👂🏼 I’m waiting https://t.co/lxYg6B8goy
— Ian Poulter (@IanJamesPoulter) March 1, 2023
“Working out doesn’t actually need much brain power. And has a similar sound to another product that the media and commentators have been very critical of.
“All ears are now open. Waiting here.”
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