Rory McIlroy criticizes Tiger Woods" meeting with LIV Golf backers in NYC

Rory McIlroy has expressed his concerns regarding a meeting between Tiger Woods, PGA Tour officials, and LIV Golf's Saudi Arabian backers that took place in New York on September 10, just before the anniversary of the September 11 attacks. This meeting has drawn criticism from various quarters, particularly from 9/11 Justice president Brett Eagleson, who labeled it 'disgusting and unacceptable' given the historical context of the attacks and the alleged involvement of Saudi nationals. McIlroy acknowledged the peculiar timing of the meeting but refrained from directly condemning Woods, indicating a strained relationship between the two golfers. The discussions reportedly aimed at exploring a potential merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, which has been a contentious topic in the golfing world. The meeting was highlighted by the arrival of private jets belonging to Woods, the PGA Tour, and Saudi oil firm Aramco in New York, raising eyebrows about the nature of the negotiations. McIlroy stated that he was not privy to the details of the talks but emphasized the need for the golf community to seek solutions to ongoing issues. Eagleson, who lost his father in the 9/11 attacks, criticized the timing of the meeting, pointing out the proximity to Ground Zero and the painful memories associated with it. He reiterated the long-standing accusations against Saudi Arabia regarding its alleged role in the attacks, which have fueled ongoing debates about the legitimacy of LIV Golf and its funding sources. As the golf world continues to grapple with the implications of these discussions, McIlroy's comments reflect a broader concern about the intersection of sports, politics, and historical grievances, highlighting the challenges faced by athletes in navigating these complex issues.