McIlroy, Masters Champ, Skips Memorial Tournament

Rory McIlroy, currently world No. 2 and reigning Masters champion, will miss the Memorial Tournament for the first time since 2017, marking his third absence from a PGA Tour signature event this season. Despite his positive relationship with host Jack Nicklaus, McIlroy cited the need for rest and preparation ahead of the U.S. Open as his reasons for skipping the event. His decision reflects a wider trend among top golfers, including world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who are also managing their schedules by skipping some signature tournaments. Some fans and commentators have criticized McIlroy's absence as disrespectful to Nicklaus and the tournament's prestige. Nonetheless, McIlroy plans to return at the RBC Canadian Open before competing at the U.S. Open, where he has historically performed well.