Rory McIlroy has been one of the most outspoken PGA Tour golfers about preserving the tour despite everything LIV Golf is doing to create its own breakaway league, but even the Northern Irishman recognizes the power of what LIV is building.

McIlroy has been speaking on behalf of the PGA Tour's side for the entire LIV Golf saga. Rahm was on his side for two years before jumping to the rival tour in late 2023. The division in golf's professional ranks has tanked television ratings but the recreational side of the sport has boomed in recent years.

DeMar DeRozan gave Sacramento the lead for good with 2:20 remaining, De'Aaron Fox made five free throws amid two controversial calls in the final 33 seconds, and the host Kings hung on to defeat the Houston Rockets 132-127 on Thursday night.

The two Northern Irish golfers have been close in the past, but a move to the rival tour could ruin that relationship.

All the while, McIlroy will attempt to win a fifth career major after a 10-year drought filled with close calls. Recently, he has had second-place finishes at the past two U.S. Opens and one runner up at the 2022 Masters. There was also a heartbreaking third place behind winner Cam Smith at the 150th Open at St. Andrews.

Justin Thomas, Patrick Cantlay and Nick Dunlap Compete at The American Express at PGA West in La Quinta, Calif., – Thursday-Sunday Coverage on GOLF Channel Begins at 4 p.m. ET

Northern Ireland's Tom McKibbin consulted the world No. 3, who advised him to accept the PGA Tour card but the 22-year-old appears to be going to the rival circuit.

Rory McIlroy said he cautioned Tom McKibbin against joining LIV Golf because he did not believe that his protege was ready for all that it entails at this point of his young career.