Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, celebrates after making a putt on the fifth hole during the third round at the Masters golf tournament, Saturday, April 12, 2025, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
Speaking to BOYLE Sports, who offer the latest PGA golf odds, Chubby Chandler believes Rory McIlroy is far from finished in major championship golf. Chandler, McIlroy’s former agent, said the four‑time major winner should play “more freely” now that he has completed the Career Grand Slam.
Chandler projects McIlroy to reach 10 majors, though he stops short of comparing him to Tiger Woods. He notes that Scottie Scheffler’s dominance will inevitably limit McIlroy’s total, much like Woods limited the major hauls of Ernie Els and Lee Westwood. With McIlroy at age 36, Chandler estimates he has “six really good years left,” giving him roughly two dozen chances to add to his tally.
“Rory Talks Too Much” — A Liability With a Microphone
Chandler did not hold back when discussing McIlroy’s public persona. He said McIlroy “talks too much” and is “more of a liability than the Prime Minister” when a microphone is placed in front of him.
He added that McIlroy often had to walk back comments, even on personal matters, and suggested the golfer simply “calm down a bit.” Chandler acknowledged the difficulty of constant media attention but maintained that McIlroy’s eagerness to speak created unnecessary distractions.
The Players Championship “Will Never Be a Major”
Chandler dismissed any notion that The Players Championship could become golf’s fifth major. He praised the event’s prestige and field strength but insisted it remains a “standalone tournament” that cannot replace the PGA Championship.
He also noted that the event’s March date works far better than its former May slot, calling it an ideal lead‑in to The Masters.
Justin Rose as a Players Threat — and Masters Contender
Chandler believes Justin Rose is well‑positioned for a strong week at TPC Sawgrass, citing similarities between the course’s grass and Augusta National. While he sees McIlroy and Scheffler as the clear Masters favorites, he places Rose firmly in the mix.
He also warned that the golf world risks focusing too heavily on McIlroy and Scheffler, overlooking rising talents like Min Woo Lee and Ben Griffin.
“You Wouldn’t Cross the Road to Watch Morikawa”
Chandler saved some of his sharpest criticism for American players, arguing that too many “play it safe” and lack flair. He singled out Collin Morikawa, saying fans “wouldn’t cross the road” to watch him.
He contrasted Morikawa’s style with Brooks Koepka’s intensity and purpose, arguing that golf needs more players with passion and fewer who simply “go about their job in a very professional manner.”
