European Tour CEO Keith Pelley has defended the absence of Rory McIlroy from the season-ending DP World Tour Championship in Dubai.
McIlroy, a former triple European Tour No. 1, is currently residing in Dubai and, in fact, was spotted last Thursday playing a social round at the nearby Emirates Club and host each year to the Dubai Desert Classic.
McIlroy, however, has not played a tournament round since ending well down the field six weeks ago the Alfred Dunhill Links in Scotland and will not compete again until next month as he strives to recover fully from a rib injury.
Pelley, in an annual ‘State of the Tour’ address Sunday morning, was asked about McIlroy’s absence that eventually saw him finish 13th on the Race to Dubai and having contested just 12 Tour counting events in the year.
Keith Pelley says he is ‘totally comfortable’ with Rory McIlroy not contesting FP World Tour Championship. (Photo – European Tour/Gettys)
“Rory and I had the dialogue — we’ve had the dialogue about him needing the rest, about taking the rest of the season off,” said Pelley.
“Playing a match with your mates is completely different than playing in a competitive golf tournament. I’ve had this conversation over and over again with my executive and members of our Tournament Committee.
“Playing in a golf tournament, getting up, practising, playing four days after you haven’t played, you have to definitely be ready.
“I’m totally comfortable with Rory’s decision that he made some time ago.
“The most important thing for the European Tour and global golf is to have our superstars healthy and playing at the best they possibly can be. So, take time to get healthy.
“I totally respect Rory’s decision.”
