Xander Schauffele’s Snide ‘Opinions’ Jibe at Rory McIlroy Proven Right After His Massive FedEx Cup U-Turn

Xander Schauffele has sparked a debate by calling out Rory McIlroy for his evolving stances on key issues in golf. McIlroy, once a fierce critic of LIV Golf, has shifted his perspective and now supports the unification of men’s golf. Schauffele, currently ranked world No. 2, didn’t hold back when discussing McIlroy’s tendency to “bounce around” with his opinions, pointing out that this isn’t the first time the Northern Irishman has changed his tune.

McIlroy’s reversal on the Olympics is another example. Initially dismissive of the Games, McIlroy’s attitude softened after Tokyo 2020, and he expressed a desire to participate in future Olympics. Schauffele acknowledged McIlroy’s flip-flop but agreed with him on one thing: the inclusion of golf in the Olympics was essential during a turbulent time for the sport.

The spotlight on McIlroy’s shifting views grew brighter when he recently praised the FedExCup’s Starting Strokes format, which he once criticized. In 2019, McIlroy questioned the fairness of the format, where the FedExCup points leader starts with a 10-stroke advantage. Fast forward to 2024, and McIlroy now sees the format in a new light, especially given Scottie Scheffler’s dominant season, which includes six wins and an Olympic gold medal. McIlroy admitted, “I love this format because if it wasn’t this format, then none of us would have a chance against Scottie because he’s so far ahead.”

This shift in McIlroy’s stance seemingly validates Schauffele’s observation about McIlroy’s fluid opinions. As McIlroy, Schauffele, and Scheffler prepare to face off at the TOUR Championship, all eyes will be on how McIlroy’s latest perspective plays out on the leaderboard, particularly as the race for the 10-stroke advantage heats up.