Here’s a bold statement: the Players Championship doesn’t need to be crowned golf’s fifth major—and one of the sport’s biggest stars agrees. But here’s where it gets controversial: Rory McIlroy, the world number two and one of only six men to complete the career Grand Slam, believes the Players already has a stronger identity than even the US PGA Championship. So, why isn’t he pushing for it to join the major ranks? Let’s dive in.
McIlroy, the 36-year-old Northern Irishman from County Down, made history in April when he secured his first Green Jacket at Augusta National, completing his set of golf’s four majors: the Masters, US Open, Open Championship, and US PGA Championship. With such a resume, his perspective carries weight. Yet, when it comes to the Players Championship—often dubbed 'the fifth major'—he’s surprisingly traditional.
Held in March at the iconic TPC Sawgrass, the Players has long been celebrated for its elite field and prestige. However, since the rise of LIV Golf in 2022, it’s seen a few big names absent, raising questions about its current standing. And this is the part most people miss: while the tournament’s recent promotional campaign boldly declares 'March is going to be major,' McIlroy isn’t convinced the men’s game needs to follow the lead of women’s golf, which already boasts five majors.
'I’d love to have seven majors instead of five—that sounds fantastic,' McIlroy joked, referencing his two Players Championship wins alongside his five majors. 'The Players is undoubtedly one of the best tournaments in the world. The course, the venue, the fan experience—it’s all top-notch. But I’m a traditionalist. We have four majors, and that’s part of golf’s history. If you want to see what five majors looks like, just look at the women’s game. I’m not sure that’s been a clear win for them.'
Here’s the controversial question: Is McIlroy right to resist change, or is golf missing an opportunity to elevate the Players to major status? Let’s spark a debate—what do you think? Should the Players Championship become the fifth major, or is tradition worth preserving? Share your thoughts below!
