Tom McKibbin: Northern Ireland man confirms that the Saudi Arabia-Liv Golf can move

McKibbin is the second player from Northern Ireland who changes to Liv Golf. The US Open winner from 2010, Graeme McDowell, already part of a race track with several other large winners.

These include the current US Open Champion Bryson Dechambeau and Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Cameron Smith and Sergio Garcia.

The Holywood Golfer has qualified for this year’s Open Championship, which will take place at Royal Portrush.

McKibbin became professional in April 2021 and won his first DP World Tour event at the Porsche European Open in Germany in June 2023. He also lost at a play-off at Italian Open of the past year.

His decision was able to receive a Ryder Cup debut against the USA this season.

Two weeks ago, the former world number one said McIlroy that he would find it “a little disappointing” if McKibbin moved to Liv.

“If I were in his position what I had been before and had his potential, I would not make this decision,” said Mcilroy.

“But I’m not him. I am not in his shoes. He is an adult man at that time and can make his own decisions.”

McIlroy added that he would continue to be a “fan” of the 22-year-old and would definitely help him.