Rory McIlroy has called on fellow European golfers Tyrrell Hatton and Jon Rahm to pay multi-million-pound fines linked to LIV Golf events, saying it is a clear test of commitment to the Ryder Cup and the DP World Tour.
The comments come as golf remains split by the ongoing LIV Golf controversy, with European team unity now under fresh scrutiny.
McIlroy, speaking this week during the DP World Tour’s Middle East swing, made his position clear as appeals from Hatton and Rahm continue.
Both players face fines for playing in LIV Golf tournaments while still holding DP World Tour membership.
Why are Tyrrell Hatton and Jon Rahm facing Ryder Cup fines?
The dispute centres on DP World Tour rules, which require members to request permission before playing in non-sanctioned events.
- Who is affected? Tyrrell Hatton and Jon Rahm, both Ryder Cup regulars
- What happened? They played in LIV Golf events without full tour approval
- Why does it matter? Breaching the rules triggered fines worth several million pounds
- When did this start? The issue dates back to the early LIV Golf breakaway in 2022
- Where does the money go? The penalties are payable to the DP World Tour
Although both golfers have appealed, the sanctions remain in place for now.
What did Rory McIlroy say about paying the fines?
McIlroy did not soften his stance when asked whether Hatton and Rahm should settle the penalties.
Rory McIlroy was asked about Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton paying their fines to remain eligible for the Ryder Cup.
“We all sat up there and said that we would pay to play in Ryder Cups. There’s two guys that can prove it.” pic.twitter.com/sxUcJbPdMl
— Golf Digest (@GolfDigest) January 21, 2026
“Yes, absolutely. We all sign up to the same rules at the start of every year. Everyone knew what those rules were before making their choices,” McIlroy said.
He stressed that Ryder Cup selection should come with responsibility, especially after Europe’s strong team-first messaging at recent tournaments.
McIlroy’s own legacy continues to grow off the course, too. Earlier last year, an award was launched in his name by the DP World Tour to honour outstanding performance in major championships, highlighting his influence across European golf.
How does the Ryder Cup come into this?
McIlroy pointed back to Europe’s Ryder Cup win in September, where unity and principle were key talking points.
At the time, European players criticised the US team after reports that American golfers were financially rewarded for participation. Europe publicly rejected payment, framing the Ryder Cup as a matter of pride rather than profit.
McIlroy now believes this moment offers Hatton and Rahm a chance to prove their loyalty. “It’s an opportunity to show commitment to the European cause,” he suggested.
What have Hatton and Rahm said in response?
Tyrrell Hatton
Hatton, currently defending his title at the Dubai Desert Classic, responded cautiously.
- He said discussions are ongoing
- He confirmed lawyers are handling the matter
- He reiterated pride in DP World Tour membership
Hatton declined to directly challenge McIlroy’s comments.
Jon Rahm
Rahm has taken a firmer stance, previously stating he does not intend to pay the fines while the appeal process continues.
What does this mean for future Ryder Cup selection?
The issue places European captain Luke Donald in a difficult position ahead of the 2027 Ryder Cup.
While form remains the main selection factor, McIlroy’s comments highlight an unwritten expectation: Ryder Cup players should respect tour rules, even when commercial pressures are high.
There is currently no official rule banning LIV Golf players from selection, but internal politics could still influence decisions.
Is golf any closer to ending the LIV Golf split?
McIlroy also addressed the wider state of professional golf, offering a blunt assessment.
“I just don’t see a world where it can happen at this point,” he said, referring to reunification talks.
Negotiations between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and LIV Golf collapsed last year. McIlroy believes none of the sides are willing to compromise enough to rebuild a single structure.
What does this mean for the UK public?
For UK golf fans, the debate encapsulates the sport’s ongoing split between tradition and commercial change.
As major events like the Ryder Cup draw huge support, questions about commitment and tour affiliation are now part of mainstream discussion.
With McIlroy’s profile still rising, including his significant earnings and recognition at home, this story continues to resonate across British sporting communities.
Including his rise in stature, his estimated net worth climbed sharply after major victories and sponsorship growth.
