Rory McIlroy spikes ‘fifth major’ allegations, makes surprising NFL admission
Published on Thursday, 12 February 2026 at 12:36 am

Rory McIlroy has openly challenged the PGA Tour’s recent attempt to elevate a tournament to so-called “fifth major” status, underscoring his skepticism about adding unofficial prestige to an already crowded calendar. Speaking on the matter, McIlroy pushed back against the designation, questioning both its legitimacy and the motives behind it.
In the same discussion, the four-time major champion offered an unexpected revelation about the National Football League, hinting at a personal connection or interest that caught observers off guard. While specifics of the NFL admission were not detailed, the comment added a fresh layer of intrigue to McIlroy’s off-course narrative.
The remarks come at a time when the PGA Tour continues to experiment with event branding and fan engagement strategies, making McIlroy’s candid stance a notable counterpoint. His dual commentary—rejecting the manufactured major label while veering into football territory—highlights the Northern Irishman’s willingness to speak plainly on issues that transcend golf’s traditional boundaries.
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Source: golf


