Rory McIlroy believes Bryson DeChambeau could bring significant attention to the DP World Tour if he decides to join the circuit next season, but feels the American golfer has limited alternatives following the collapse of LIV Golf.
DeChambeau's future in professional golf has become uncertain after the Saudi-backed league confirmed plans to wind down its operations. The two-time US Open champion has indicated that he intends to approach his next career decision with humility and respect.
The 33-year-old American is eligible to apply for DP World Tour membership because of his status as a recent major champion. Joining the European-based circuit could also provide him with a pathway towards regaining his PGA Tour membership in 2028.
McIlroy believes DeChambeau's presence would attract additional interest to tournaments, despite their history of disagreements during the LIV Golf era.
“Someone like Bryson DeChambeau, with everything he brings, both good and bad, would attract more eyeballs, which is positive for tournaments,” McIlroy said.
However, the Northern Irishman suggested that DeChambeau may have few realistic opportunities if he wants to continue competing regularly at the highest level.
“I'm certainly not in his position, and I would never want to be. But it doesn't look as though he has many options if he wants to keep playing competitive golf,” he added.
McIlroy made the comments while speaking to reporters in Dubai ahead of the DP World Tour Championship, where he is targeting another Race to Dubai title.
The world number two enters the season-ending competition in second place, trailing Spain's Eugenio Chacarra by approximately 533 points. With 2,000 points available to the winner, McIlroy still has an opportunity to secure the overall championship.
Nine players remain mathematically capable of claiming the season-long crown, including Chacarra, Patrick Reed, Casey Jarvis, Aaron Rai, Jon Rahm, Ryan Fox, Jayden Schaper and Daniel Hillier.
Victory at Jumeirah Golf Estates would guarantee McIlroy a fifth consecutive Race to Dubai title and an eighth overall, bringing him level with Colin Montgomerie's record.
The 37-year-old has enjoyed considerable success at the Dubai venue, winning the tournament three times. He also finished runner-up to England's Matt Fitzpatrick in a playoff last year.
McIlroy expressed confidence ahead of the competition, highlighting his familiarity with the course and his previous performances there as reasons for optimism.
He also reflected on the consistency that has defined his career, revealing that he is proud of his ability to remain among the world's leading golfers for an extended period.
The six-time major champion expects to finish another season inside the world's top 10, continuing a remarkable run that has lasted around 15 or 16 consecutive years.
McIlroy credited his longevity to remaining largely free from serious injuries, maintaining his commitment to improvement and constantly identifying weaknesses in his game.
As he prepares for another attempt to make history in Dubai, attention will also remain on DeChambeau and the decision that could shape the next stage of his professional career.
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