Denis Poroy-Imagn Images
The best golfers in the world are at The Renaissance Club in North Berwick, Scotland this week for the Genesis Scottish Open. It is the final test for most of the field ahead of next week’s British Open Championship at Royal Portrush where Rory McIlroy will seek to capture his second major championship of the year.
Prior to the action starting on Thursday morning, the world #2 and reigning Masters champion Rory McIlroy had some choice words during his press conference about how “venues in golf matter.”
The PGA of America’s headquarters is located in Frisco, Texas. It is just a stone’s throw from PGA Frisco, with two 18-hole championship courses designed by Gil Hanse and Beau Welling.
I’m not super familiar with Beau Welling’s work but Gil Hanse is one of the best on earth. He is the mastermind behind Apogee, Boston Golf Club, the Olympic Golf Course (Brazil), The Cradle at Pinehurst, Streamsong Black, and many others as well as arguably the best around for golf course restoration.
PGA of America Catches Stray From Rory McIlroy
Suffice it to say, PGA Frisco is a world class golf destination. Alas, according to Rory McIlroy it lacks the panache of other prestigious golf courses that players want to win on.
PGA of America execs waking up to a doozy of a drive-by this morning pic.twitter.com/OkkJSOCNqs
— Sean Zak (@Sean_Zak) July 9, 2025
Rory McIlroy is, of course, referring to PGA Frisco as the host of the PGA Championship in 2027. Frisco will also host numerous other events in the years ahead.
For context, here is how close the Omni PGA Frisco resort is to the PGA of America headquarters.
Google Maps
Rory’s Point Is Valid
While PGA of America execs might shudder at Rory McIlroy’s comments this morning, he has a point. Players want to win on the biggest stages.
Tiger Woods’ greatest performance in a Major Championship came at Pebble Beach. He won British Open Championships at St. Andrews Old Course, the home of golf.
Beth Page Black where the Ryder Cup will be held this Summer is among the toughest tests in golf. These courses have gravitas that has been earned throughout the years and not conferred through a fancy designer and immaculate golf course agronomy.
What Golf Fans Are Saying About Rory McIlroy’s Comments
Most, if not all, agree with what Rors had to say. The replies on X all seem to support him.
“It’s great when pros really care about where they play, contend, win, etc.” — Sean Zak
“Rory has always been honest and I appreciate that from him.” — Frank I.
“Emergency board meeting was just called.” — Treezy
There are some comments disparaging Rory McIlroy as a person. There are always haters though.