The golf world was left in shock today as Rory McIlroy, the 2025 Masters champion, issued a heartfelt five-word statement in response to PGA Tour star Jason Day’s sudden withdrawal from the upcoming PGA Championship (May 15-18) at Quail Hollow Club. Day, the 2015 PGA Championship winner, was forced to step away due to a devastating health scare, a decision that has sent waves of concern through fans and players alike. McIlroy’s words—“You’re a fighter, Jason, stay”—delivered via a post on X, have become a rallying cry for the golf community as they grapple with the emotional impact of this heartbreaking news.
Jason Day, 37, announced his withdrawal through a statement released by his management team toGolf Digest, revealing a serious health issue that has sidelined him indefinitely. The Australian golfer has been diagnosed with a rare respiratory condition that has caused severe shortness of breath and fatigue, symptoms that escalated during a recent practice session. “This has been an incredibly tough call,” Day said. “My health and family come first, and I need to step back to focus on recovery. I’m devastated to miss Quail Hollow, but I have no choice.” Day’s decision comes despite a promising start to 2025, including a T4 finish at The Sentry, making his withdrawal all the more shocking to fans who had high hopes for his performance at a course where he triumphed in 2016.
McIlroy’s five-word tribute quickly went viral, reflecting his deep respect for Day’s resilience. The Northern Irish star, who is gearing up for the Truist Championship (May 8-11) and the PGA Championship, took to X to share his support: “You’re a fighter, Jason, stay.” The message resonated widely, with fans flooding social media with emotional responses. One user wrote, “Rory’s words hit me right in the heart—Jason’s a legend, praying for him.” Another posted, “#YoureAFighterJason is trending—let’s all support him through this!” McIlroy’s statement echoes Day’s own history of overcoming adversity, notably his battle with vertigo during the 2015 U.S. Open, which he pushed through to win his first major.
The golf community has rallied around Day, with other players joining McIlroy in offering support. Scottie Scheffler, currently leading the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, told reporters, “Jason’s one of the toughest competitors out there. We’re all behind him.” Jon Rahm, preparing for the PGA Championship, added, “This is tough news—Jason’s strength will get him through.” The sudden withdrawal leaves a void in the PGA Championship field, where Day was expected to challenge top contenders like McIlroy, Scheffler, and Xander Schauffele. Day’s team has not provided a clear timeline for his return, heightening fans’ anxiety about the future of his career.
Day’s health scare has also sparked discussions about the physical toll of professional golf, especially for players in their late 30s who have endured years of rigorous competition. His absence from Quail Hollow—a course where he has a strong record—adds an emotional layer to the event, which McIlroy is favored to win given his four previous victories there. As Day focuses on treatment and recovery, McIlroy’s powerful words serve as a beacon of hope, urging the golf world to stand by one of its own during this challenging time.
