Tom McKibbin has expressed satisfaction with his decision to go against Rory McIlroy’s guidance following his initial year on the LIV Golf tour. McKibbin, part of Jon Rahm’s Legion XIII, clinched victory at the team Championship in Michigan over the weekend.
Despite McIlroy’s advice to accept a PGA Tour card last November, McKibbin opted to join the Saudi-backed circuit in January. McIlroy believed McKibbin was forgoing significant opportunities by choosing LIV over the PGA and missing out on major events.
During a play-off in the season finale against Bryson DeChambeau’s Crushers, McKibbin played a key role in helping his team emerge victorious. Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton secured the championship and the $14 million top prize by defeating DeChambeau and Paul Casey on the second play-off hole.
Under the prize distribution structure where 60% goes to the team and 40% is split among the players, McKibbin is set to receive £1.04 million ($1.4 million) along with Rahm, Hatton, and Caleb Surratt. With his season earnings totaling around £7.3 million, including previous tour winnings, McKibbin has had a remarkable year.
Reflecting on his debut season, McKibbin, 22, expressed gratitude for the experience of playing alongside Rahm and Hatton, noting the valuable lessons he has learned. Despite initial doubts from McIlroy about the impact on his career, McKibbin’s performance alongside his teammates has proven beneficial.
McKibbin credited his improved game to the mentorship received from top players in the league and the challenging golf courses he encountered throughout the season. His success on the LIV Golf tour has solidified his position for another year, despite McIlroy’s early concerns about the decision.