The consequences of the disqualification of Rory Mcilroy in the 2025 PGA championship have taken a new turn, with the imposition by the PGA of America of a fine of 49,190 dollars to the golfist for their behavior towards the organization and the United States golf association (USGA). The sanction, announced on May 20, 2025 at 4:50 p.m.
Mcilroy was disqualified before the final round of May 18 after the USGA discovered that he had used a driver not in accordance with the practice sessions, violating rule 4.1. The Norirlandés, who was 1 on par and tied in 61 after 54 holes, had already received strong criticism, including mockery from Bryson Dechambeau and a heated exchange of rivalries with champion Scottie Scheffler. However, his criticisms open to the PGA and the USGA after the ruling seem to have aggravated the situation.
On May 19, Mcilroy publicly declared: “It is not fair”, accusing the guiding organs of unjustly labeling it by a technicalism that, according to him, was due to wear and tear and not to intention. The PGA of America cited these comments, together with what they described as “unsportsmanlike behavior for the integrity of the game”, as the foundation of the fine. The fine of $ 49,190 reflects a significant disciplinary measure, which underlines the position of the organization to maintain professionalism in the midst of the controversy.
Mcilroy has not yet responded to the fine, but sources close to the golfer suggest that he could appeal, arguing that the sanction aggravates even more a punishment already severe. The golf community is still divided: some fans support the fine as a necessary measure to demand responsibilities, while others consider it excessive, coinciding with the defense that CBS reporter Amanda Balionis previously made of Mcilroy. The executive director of the USGA, Mike Whan, reiterated the position of the organization, stating: “The rules exist to guarantee impartiality, and behavior must reflect the values of sport.”
The fine adds another layer of complexity to the tumultuous season 2025 of Mcilroy, after his victory in the masters and the subsequent problems. While Scheffler enjoys his victory by -16 and Dechambeau continues to cause controversy, Mcilroy faces growing pressure to overcome this scandal and restore his reputation before the United States Open.