McIlroy backs PGA Tour's new match-play format for Tour Championship

Rory McIlroy told reporters ahead of the 2026 Tour Championship that he supports the PGA Tour’s decision to replace the traditional stroke-play finale with a two-week, match-play format. He said the change reflects fan interest and praised the tour’s leadership for taking a "big swing" in the right direction.

"I think the PGA Tour, the Future Competition Committee, Brian [Rolapp] and everyone involved have really taken on board what the fans have been calling for and have wanted, which is match play," McIlroy said.

He noted that the new structure will separate the season-long champion, who will be recognized after the regular season, from the Tour Championship event itself, which will now feature head-to-head competition. His only reservation concerns how motivated players will remain during the second week when matches determine placement in the loser’s bracket.

McIlroy also discussed the potential for the tournament to be held at historic courses that are not part of the regular PGA Tour schedule. He highlighted the appeal of venues such as Merion, the Olympic Club and Baltusrol, noting that match play diminishes the importance of total yardage and par scores, allowing shorter, iconic courses to be used.

"History is a big part of it… if we’re going to a smaller footprint and a limited size of crowd, you can all of a sudden go to some of these historic venues," he explained.

While he expressed enthusiasm for the concept, McIlroy said some legendary clubs, like Pine Valley, are unlikely to host a PGA Tour event. He suggested a possible East-West split, with one week on each coast, to showcase traditional venues that have hosted major championships.

The tour’s plan remains to be tested, but McIlroy’s comments indicate that top players are receptive to the proposed format change.