Mum remains the word from Rory McIlroy about his reported decision to create a management team headed by his father, Gerry.
McIlroy declined to comment on multiple reports, including from the Associated Press, that the world No. 2 is leaving Dublin-based Horizon Sports Management after just 18 months with the firm.
“I can’t really comment on speculation at this point. Obviously, you guys know something’s up . . . but, at this point, I can’t really say much more," McIlroy said at the BMW PGA Championship on Wednesday in England.
Contractual obligations to the firm are likely prohibiting McIlroy from speaking more publicly.
The Ulsterman joined Horizon Sports in October 2011 after parting ways with Chubby Chandler and International Sports Management. Since signing with Horizon, lead man Conor Ridge has negotiated a nine-figure deal with Nike Golf, as well as deals with watchmaker Omega and sound system maker Bose.
McIlroy is thought to have been influenced to join Horizon by good friend Graeme McDowell, who has confirmed his Ryder Cup teammate's departure from Ridge's firm. McIlroy said, however, there is no rift in the friendship between the two despite the change in representation.
"I'm great friends with Graeme. He's been like a big brother to me on tour," McIlroy said. "I remember playing a practice rounds with him at the Dunhill Links back in 2007 when I got my card. He really showed me the ropes out here for a couple of years, and it's great to have good friends on tour and he's somebody I consider a very good friend."
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