Since the start of the feud between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka have been at the center of the controversy as the biggest stars in each league. And after last week’s announcement of a partnership between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, the two got a bit of awkward news this week: they’ll be in the same group this weekend.
When the 123rd U.S. Open begins at Los Angeles Country Club this week, Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka will tee off together as the two golf superstars will be in the same group to begin the tournament. The two will also be joined by 2021 Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama for the first two rounds.
McIlroy has long been outspoken in his criticism of LIV Golf, even reiterating last week “I still hate LIV.” Given that Koepka is LIV’s biggest star, this group could obviously lead to some awkward moments and awkward conversations.
The golf world had plenty to say about the interesting grouping on social media as a result.
Like making Putin and Zelensky tee off together 😮😮
— SilenceIsComplicity (@SilenceIsCompl) June 13, 2023
Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka being paired together for the #USOpen should make for some interesting TV.
— Dynes Sports (@dynessports) June 13, 2023
Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka paired up for the first round of the #USOpen should be fun 🔥 👀#USOpengolf ⛳
— Gills (@gpricey23) June 13, 2023
Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka in same group at U.S. Open – love this! (If not each other?:) https://t.co/JEepSSIum0
— Jeff Lesson On Golf (@JeffLesson) June 13, 2023
Rory McIlroy grouped with Brooks Koepka as PGA-LIV battle set to continue at US Open https://t.co/Umq23y0Ol8
— Irish Times Sport (@IrishTimesSport) June 13, 2023
The group is set to tee off for the tournament at 4:54 p.m. ET on Thursday, and it’s safe to say it will be the most compelling group in the entire field.
[ESPN]
