PGA Tour Considers 'McIlroy Rule' After Star Skips FedEx Playoff Event

Rory McIlroy has chosen to skip the opening event of the 2025 FedEx Cup Playoffs, the FedEx St. Jude Championship at TPC Southwind, sparking concerns and potential policy changes within the PGA Tour. McIlroy, ranked second in the FedEx Cup standings and already assured a spot in later playoff events, opted out primarily due to strategic rest, previous poor performances at TPC Southwind, and the removal of starting strokes that lessened his playoff incentives. His absence as the only non-participant in the 70-man field has raised questions about the playoff format's integrity and the impact of star players skipping major events. PGA Tour Policy Board members, including Peter Malnati, have expressed significant concern and hinted at possible rule changes to mandate player participation in playoff events, sometimes referred to as the potential introduction of a "McIlroy Rule." However, some players like Webb Simpson believe forcing participation is difficult and that players should have autonomy over their schedules. Jordan Spieth and others suggest the Tour is working on solutions to discourage skipping playoff events, aiming to preserve the competitiveness and appeal of these high-stakes tournaments.