Rory McIlroy played the DP World India Championship at Delhi Golf Club, sparking a public rebuke from American golfer Kevin Kisner. McIlroy finished the tournament tied for 42nd, behind winner Eugenio Lopez-Chacarra, before addressing remarks made by Kisner on the Fore Play podcast regarding international golf schedules and financial motivations.
Kevin Kisner Blasts Global Schedule and Pay Cheques
Appearing on the Fore Play podcast ahead of the event, four-time PGA Tour winner Kevin Kisner took direct aim at McIlroy’s stated ambition to grow golf globally. Kisner dismissed those motivations as financial, stating that McIlroy wanted his $10m and labeled his desire to play a global schedule as “dogsh*t.” Kisner added that McIlroy was not even hitting a driver during the tournament week in New Delhi, questioning why top players would travel to a course where they cannot use their primary equipment unless heavy appearance fees are involved.
Rory McIlroy Questions Kisner’s Claims on Motives
In response to the criticism, McIlroy defended his trip to the Indian capital by stating that two truths can coexist. “People can get paid to come and play at a tournament, but at the same time, do it from a place of genuine interest of trying to bring the sport to another country, a developing country, a country where the middle class in India is larger than the whole population of the United States,” McIlroy said, as reported by rte.ie. McIlroy also questioned the basis for Kisner’s comments, asking, “How would he know that?” and noting that he did not understand why his presence in India prompted a reaction from Kisner.
Rory McIlroy responds to Kevin Kisner's digs about India triphttps://t.co/zrTbzmJCTd
Eugenio Lopez-Chacarra Wins as Race to Dubai Standings Shift
While McIlroy finished in a tie for 42nd place after struggling with his form, Eugenio Lopez-Chacarra claimed his third title of the year at Delhi Golf Club. That victory moved Chacarra to the top of the season-long Race to Dubai rankings, pushing McIlroy down to third place behind the Spanish winner and Patrick Reed. McIlroy admitted he has considerable practice ahead before the final two events of the season, noting that he had barely touched a club following Wentworth before arriving in New Delhi.
Frequently Asked Questions About the DP World India Championship
What was Rory McIlroy’s final position at the Delhi Golf Club?
Rory McIlroy finished the 2026 DP World India Championship in a tie for 42nd place after a subdued week where he admitted he did not feel at his sharpest.
How much did Kevin Kisner claim McIlroy received to play in India?
Kevin Kisner asserted on the Fore Play podcast that McIlroy received a $10 million appearance fee to tee it up at the tournament in New Delhi.
Who won the 2026 DP World India Championship?
Eugenio Lopez-Chacarra won the tournament, claiming his third title of the year and moving to the top of the Race to Dubai standings.