Rory McIlroy’s decision to pull out of RBC Heritage could cost millions

Rory McIlroy’s decision to withdraw from RBC Heritage this week is proving costly for the PGA tour star.

After missing the cut at Augusta National last week, McIlroy announced he was pulling out of Hilton Head, a move normally expected from teachers winner.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland and his caddy Harry Diamond react on the eighth green during the second round of the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 7, 2023 in Augusta, Georgia. (Andres Redington/Getty Images)

McIlroy did not offer an explanation, but could lose $3 million as a result.

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According to Sports Illustrated and Golf Channel, RBC Heritage marks the second tournament of 17 designated PGA Tour events that members must play to take advantage of the Player Impact Program (PIP).

McIlroy previously skipped the Sentry Tournament of Champions in Kapalua, another designated event, earlier in the year. Under the current rules, players are only allowed one opt-out.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland reacts on the 18th green during the first round of the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 6, 2023 in Augusta, Georgia.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland reacts on the 18th green during the first round of the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 6, 2023 in Augusta, Georgia. (Andres Redington/Getty Images)

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According to The Associated Press, the Tour originally said 25% of the bonus would be paid after Kapalua. A memo sent to players in December said 75% would be paid after Kapalua and the remainder would be paid when a player met the rest of their obligations, which included playing in 16 of 17 designated events.

McIlroy was No. 2 behind tiger forest when the PIP results were announced in November.

A source told Sports Illustrated that McIlroy will now lose $3 million of his $12 million earnings due to his retirement from RBC Heritage.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland and Tiger Woods of the United States during The Match 7 at Pelican Golf Club on December 10, 2022 in Belleair, Florida.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland and Tiger Woods of the United States during The Match 7 at Pelican Golf Club on December 10, 2022 in Belleair, Florida. (Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images for The Match)

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But the final decision ultimately rests with Commissioner Jay Monahan.

“The Commissioner, in his sole discretion, may modify, waive, or adjust eligibility requirements, program commitments, and/or program metrics based on extraordinary circumstances,” the rules state.

Associated Press contributed to this report.

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