Rory McIlroy finished in a tie for 14th place in his long-awaited return to the Australian Open this week.
McIlroy did not have his A-game and was never in contention, but he still thoroughly enjoyed his time Down Under.
The golf course and the atmosphere in Melbourne were incredible, and will hopefully have a positive impact on the event’s future.
It would be great to see more top players from around the world compete in the tournament next year and beyond.
McIlroy has now responded to Max Homa’s suggestion that he would be willing to make the journey in 2026.
Rory McIlroy reacts to Max Homa’s post about Australian Open
Max Homa seemed to have the same thoughts about the Australian Open as everyone who saw the scenes at Royal Melbourne this week.
He posted on social media: “Instagram has me feeling like I gotta play in Australia next year. Looks heavenly.”
McIlroy, who has committed to playing in 2026, was then asked about Homa’s comments in his post-round press conference.
“I think you’d have to qualify first, but yeah, it would be amazing,” McIlroy responded to the American.
Which tournament would you like to see become the fifth major championship?
The Australian Open, for example, should almost be the fifth major. The market down there is huge with potential.
Rory McIlroy
“I think the scenes and just how this tournament has looked on TV all week, you have that (being televised) in Europe or back in the United States, it makes an impact.
“I said this earlier in the week, but if you compare this tournament to the other two tournaments going on in the world of golf this week (the Hero World Challenge and the Nedbank Golf Challenge), there’s no comparison.
“Yes, the field in The Bahamas is stronger than the one here, but in terms of atmosphere, of golf course, basically everything else you’re looking for in a tournament, I can’t think of many better than this.”
Australian Open needs more United States players
As McIlroy mentioned, the biggest issue for the Australian Open is that two other tournaments are taking place simultaneously.
More players would surely be interested in playing if it were held on a different week, especially after watching the incredible event at Royal Melbourne.
It would be particularly nice to see some more American participation in Australia, as that was lacking this week.
Should more American golfers play DP World Tour events?
Patrick Reed, Billy Horschel, and Michael Kim are three American players who have enjoyed playing on the DP World Tour.
Perhaps two-time champion Jordan Spieth (2014 and 2016) would also be interested in going for a third title.
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