Fellow Open Championship and U.S. Open winner Tony Jacklin has come out in support of Rory McIlroy following his somewhat controversial comments ahead of last week’s season-ending DP World Tour Championship.

McIlroy raised plenty of eyebrows in Dubai when he hinted of not taking-up 2019 European Tour membership and also the strong possibility of ignoring next year’s Paul McGinley hosted Irish Open at Lahinch and instead contest the Scottish Open.

McIlroy indicated he had even spoken to European Tour CEO, Keith Pelley regarding his decision but with fears if he doesn’t take-up membership then he would be ineligible to become a future Ryder Cup captain.

The four-time Major winner brushed off that suggestion saying:  “I’ve got 20-years, I’ve got 20-years”.

Tony Jacklin tells Reuters McIlroy should stick with a decision not to rejoin the European Tour in 2019.

Now McIlroy’s found support in the form of Jacklin, and who has been approached often by AGW colleague and good friend, Tony Jimenez and who files to Reuters.

“I’m in total agreement with his decision,” said Jacklin.

“He must have no regrets about what he’s trying to achieve in his career and from his point of view he’s got to be where the best players are. I don’t see anything wrong with that.

“You’ve only got one life and you don’t want to be looking back with regrets. The best tournaments are all that matter to a top golfer, all the other stuff is unimportant. The majors are the be-all and end-all for the great players and Rory is obviously a great player.”