GOLF: McIlroy face driver controversy

Rory McIlroy’s performance at the 2025 PGA Championship was overshadowed by a controversy involving his driver, which was deemed non-conforming by the USGA during pre-tournament equipment testing at Quail Hollow. The issue centered on the club’s “spring-like effect,” which can increase over time due to wear, potentially giving players an unintended advantage. As a result, McIlroy was compelled to switch to a backup driver just before the tournament began .

This unexpected equipment change appeared to impact McIlroy’s game significantly. He struggled with driving accuracy, hitting only 4 of 14 fairways in the opening round and finishing the tournament tied for 47th place at 3-over-par . Notably, McIlroy chose not to speak to the media after any of his rounds, a departure from his usual openness, leading to further speculation and criticism .

McIlroy was not alone in facing equipment issues; World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler also had his driver fail the same conformity test. However, Scheffler adapted successfully, using a backup driver to win the championship. He later emphasized the need for more consistent and comprehensive equipment testing across the field to ensure fairness .

The PGA of America clarified that such equipment deviations are typically due to wear and are not indicative of any wrongdoing by players. They also noted that approximately a third of the field underwent random driver testing during the event, and results are usually kept confidential to protect players’ reputations .

This incident has sparked broader discussions about the transparency and consistency of equipment testing in professional golf, highlighting the delicate balance between maintaining fair play and managing the reputational risks for players when equipment issues arise.