Rory McIlroy shares why the 2028 Olympics could be a ‘headache’ after what he’s heard recently

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Much has been made of the current Olympic golf formant – and now Rory McIlroy has shared his thoughts on the debate.

Currently, a traditional 72-hole event takes place over four days, during which the world’s elite battle for an elusive podium spot.

But, given the similarity to a traditional tour event, the Olympics could have made a mistake by not incorporating another format.

Players have reacted to proposed changes in very different ways this week at Le Golf National. Tommy Fleetwood was excited by the idea of a new format for the Los Angeles 2028 games, whereas Xander Schauffele highlighted some of the issues.

Rory McIlroy suggests Olympic ‘headache’ could emerge in Los Angeles

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McIlroy is the latest to react to the potential changes in four years. The Northern Irishman claims he’s heard news of a scheduling ‘headache’ emerging if alterations to the Olympic event are made.

“I think from what I’ve read, 2028 in L.A. is going to be much more of a headache than this one was,” said the four-time major winner. “But maybe the world of golf looks a little different then.”

When asked whether the Olympics could fall before The Open, McIlroy offered an honest response.

“I don’t think you can — well, it will be the week of the — the second week of Wimbledon, which you can’t do, either,” he added. “There are so many golf tournaments and not enough weeks in the calendar. Something needs to give.”

Olympic golf is in a delicate position ahead of the 2028 games

The organisers of the Olympic golfing event are in a precarious position ahead of the LA games.

Right now, the format suits the participants. It comes after major championship season and is pretty much like a normal PGA or DP World Tour event.

Yet, with suggestions that new formats such as match play and a mixed event should be included, a delicate balancing act could soon emerge.

Keeping the world’s best players happy would probably involve retaining the current format and reducing the impact on the schedule. But, in order to grow the game, expanding the event and making it feel more exciting feels essential.

But, as McIlroy suggested, the game could be in a very different place in four years when the Olympics get underway in LA, and these issues could feel insignificant.