The 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club has been rocked by controversy, with Rory McIlroy’s disqualification on May 18 sending shockwaves through the golf world. The United States Golf Association (USGA) confirmed that McIlroy used a non-conforming TaylorMade Qi10 driver, violating Rule 4.1 by seeking an unfair advantage, leading to his immediate removal from the tournament. In a fiery response on May 19, 2025, at 05:27 PM +07, McIlroy unleashed his frustration with five powerful words: “It’s not fair.”
McIlroy, who was at 1-over-par and T61 after 54 holes, had already endured a challenging week following the initial flagging of his driver during a pre-tournament test. The USGA’s investigation revealed he continued using the club in practice sessions, prompting the PGA of America to disqualify him before the final round. The decision ended his chance to compete for the $3.42 million prize, which he intended to donate to the children’s charity Mencap, and dashed his hopes of adding a third PGA Championship title.
Speaking publicly for the first time since the ruling, McIlroy did not hold back. “It’s not fair,” he declared, his voice trembling with anger. “I’ve given everything to this sport, and to be labeled a cheater over a technicality is wrong. I didn’t know the driver was non-conforming—it’s wear and tear, not intent.” His comments echo sentiments from supporters like CBS reporter Amanda Balionis, who previously called the ruling unfair, but they also contrast with the mockery he faced from Bryson DeChambeau, who taunted McIlroy’s low ranking.
The USGA, led by CEO Mike Whan, defended the decision, stating, “The rules are clear and apply to everyone. Integrity is paramount.” Meanwhile, Scottie Scheffler, who won the championship at -16 and donated his $3.42 million prize to the Victory Childhood Cancer Foundation, expressed sympathy, saying, “Rory’s one of the best, and I hate seeing this happen to him.”
McIlroy’s outburst has reignited debates over equipment regulations and the severity of penalties in golf. As the golf community processes this fallout, McIlroy’s words reflect a deeper frustration with the sport’s governing bodies, leaving fans to wonder how this incident will shape his future.
