The PGA Tour has confirmed that Rory McIlroy will speak to the media on Wednesday ahead of the RBC Canadian Open, marking the end of his recent media silence.
McIlroy, 36, notably avoided all media interactions during the PGA Championship (May 15–18), despite speaking briefly during a pre-tournament press conference. His silence throughout the event followed news that his preferred driver, known as his “gamer,” had failed a CT test conducted by the USGA during the first round. While other players, including eventual winner Scottie Scheffler, addressed similar issues, McIlroy and his team declined to comment—fueling speculation and criticism as he finished a disappointing T47 at Quail Hollow, one of his favorite venues.
Adding to the controversy, McIlroy declined to participate in this week’s Memorial Tournament, hosted by Jack Nicklaus. Nicklaus publicly expressed his surprise, revealing McIlroy did not notify him personally and that he learned of the decision through the media. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan defended McIlroy’s choice, but the move drew criticism from figures including LIV Golf’s Phil Mickelson.
This marks McIlroy’s third missed Signature Event in the 2025 season, more than any other top player, though he will not face penalties.
The Memorial Tournament, held at Muirfield Village Golf Club, is the seventh of eight Signature Events this season, offering a $20 million purse. The final Signature Event will be the Travelers Championship, set to take place following the U.S. Open in mid-June.
McIlroy’s upcoming media appearance is expected to take place after his pro-am round at the RBC Canadian Open. While a specific time has not been set, his comments will likely attract significant attention.
The Northern Irishman is a two-time winner of the Canadian Open, with victories in 2019 and 2022. This year’s tournament will be held at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley (North Course) in Ontario and features a prize purse of $9.8 million. With Scheffler absent, McIlroy enters as the clear favorite to claim a third title.
Defending champion Robert MacIntyre of Scotland returns to the field, while players will soon shift focus to the U.S. Open at Oakmont (June 12–15), where Bryson DeChambeau will defend his title after narrowly defeating McIlroy in 2024 at Pinehurst No. 2.
