Rory McIlroy’s decision to withdraw from RBC Heritage could cost millions
RBC Heritage is the second designated event McIlroy has skipped
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Rory McIlroy’s decision to withdraw from the RBC Heritage this week is proving to be a costly one for the PGA Tour star.
After failing to make the cut at Augusta National last week, McIlroy announced he would be withdrawing from Hilton Head, a move typically expected from the Masters winner.
Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland and his caddie Harry Diamond react on the eighth green during the second round of the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club April 7, 2023, in Augusta, Ga. (Andrew Redington/Getty Images)
McIlroy did not offer an explanation, but he stands to lose $3 million as a result.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}According to Sports Illustrated and Golf Channel, RBC Heritage marks the second tournament of the PGA Tour’s 17 designated events that members are required to play to cash in on the Player Impact Program (PIP).
McIlroy previously skipped out on the Sentry Tournament of Champions at Kapalua, another designated event, at the start of the year. Under the current rules, players are only allowed one opt-out.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland reacts on the 18th green during the first round of the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club April 6, 2023, in Augusta, Ga. (Andrew Redington/Getty Images)
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
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 rest paid when a player met the rest of his obligations, which included playing in 16 of 17 designated events.
McIlroy was No. 2 behind Tiger Woods when the PIP results were announced in November.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}A source told Sports Illustrated McIlroy will now forfeit $3 million of his $12 million earnings because of his withdrawal from RBC Heritage.
Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland and Tiger Woods of the United States during The Match 7 at Pelican Golf Club Dec. 10, 2022, in Belleair, Fla. (Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images for The Match)
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
But the final decision ultimately rests with Commissioner Jay Monahan.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}"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.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.