Rory McIlroy has been urged to ignore the fractious antics of LIV Golf chief Greg Norman as he bids to end his Major drought in 2023.
World No.1 McIlroy has taken the stance of unofficial ambassador for golf's established tours this year during the civil war that has erupted amidst the emergence of the contentious Saudi-Arabia-backed LIV venture.
McIlroy has been unwavering in his support for the PGA Tour and damning in his criticism of the disruptive LIV series, that has utilised guaranteed millions to poach a host of elite players in a year where the sport has changed beyond recognition.
CEO Norman has remained LIV's ostentatious firebrand, with McIlroy insisting last month that the maligned Australian should "exit stage left" and quit his role so that the 'adults' can negotiate a peace settlement for the good of the professional game.
And two-time major champion Curtis Strange is the latest name in golf to take aim at Norman for his irreverence towards the tour that once gave him his platform in the sport.
"If it wasn't for the PGA Tour, Greg Norman would not be Greg Norman," former PGA Tour player Strange said. "He is a guy without any deep allegiance or respect for any tour and he has shown that in the last year. He lives in the States and only went back to Australia if he got huge prize money."
It has been suggested that McIlroy's strong attitude towards LIV Golf has fuelled his stunning resurgence back to the summit of the rankings in 2022. The Northern Irishman enjoyed a remarkably consistent year, winning the FedEx Cup and the DP Word Tour's order of merit.
But McIlroy is still seeking an elusive first Major title since 2014 and Strange hopes the persistent inflammatory antics of Norman does not prove distracting during the 2023 season.
"I keep reading another derogatory comment about quality people like Rory McIlroy, or someone else that Greg has thrown under the bus," Strange added. "The players are in the midst now and I hope it doesn't distract from Rory's ability and potential.
"He is already one of the best of all time but I want him to reach his full potential and not be busied by this noise from the outside. Greg and his Saudi tour is causing that and I hate it."
