Luke Donald has backed Rory McIlroy over his strong stance amid golf's ongoing fierce civil war.
McIlroy will be a totemic figure in Donald's European team ahead of next September's Ryder Cup showdown against the USA near Rome. And the Northern Irishman has become the unofficial spokesperson for the sport's status quo in a tumultuous year caused by the emergence of the ostentatious LIV series.
McIlroy has been candid and forthright on how he feels the disruptive Saudi-backed LIV venture is damaging golf. The world No.1's stunning resurgence back to the summit of the rankings has also been somewhat been fuelled by his frustration with the Saudi-backed invitational tour.
And the outspoken McIlroy has admitted feeling 'betrayed' by a number of his ex-Ryder Cup teammates who jeopardised future roles in the iconic event to join the contentious LIV series.
McIlroy is now calling for the PGA Tour and DP World Tour to find a common ground with LIV for the long-term benefit of the sport, but he has also urged LIV's chief firebrand Norman to 'exit stage left' so peace settlements can take place.
The 33-year-old's fervent criticism of LIV throughout the year has not been a distraction, however, instead lifting his game as he ended the year as world no.1, Fed Ex Cup champion, and the DP World Tour's order of merit winner.
Former world no.1 Donald has been impressed with how McIlroy has balanced his newfound leadership status with scintillating form on the course.
“He just feels a responsibility," Donald said. "He has always been open and honest. He has always expressed how he feels, and I think he feels as the No. 1 player in the world he has a responsibility.
"He is getting many questions asked. He is one of those people who does not back off and will tell you how he feels. He has stepped up as a leader. It is difficult being someone at the top of the game, you are working hard on that, so to do both and to juggle that is pretty impressive."
McIlroy has enjoyed a stunning year of success, but a major title still eludes him and he agonisingly missed out to new LIV rebel Cameron Smith at the 150th Open Championship at St Andrews.
But Donald is in little doubt that his star European player will challenge again in 2023 as he aims to end his eight-year major drought.
"He is a helluva player," Donald added. "I am sure he is disappointed he has not won a major this year. But it would be a surprise if he did not have great opportunities again next year."
