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McIlroy: Players Championship Doesn't Need Major Status

2/11/2026

23 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Rory McIlroy, a professional golfer and two-time Players Championship winner, said the tournament is among golf's best but should not be the fifth major ahead of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
McIlroy praised the Players' identity and experience, saying it stands on its own without the major label.
Phil Mickelson, a former Players winner, criticized PGA Tour marketing and argued that LIV Golf absence undermines the tournament's status.

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Story summary

Rory McIlroy, a professional golfer and two-time Players Championship winner, said the tournament is among golf's best but should not be the fifth major ahead of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
McIlroy praised the Players' identity and experience, saying it stands on its own without the major label.
Phil Mickelson, a former Players winner, criticized PGA Tour marketing and argued that LIV Golf absence undermines the tournament's status.