RORY MCILROY YESTERDAY insisted he still had a choice on who to represent at the new Olympic Games in Brazil.
Peter Dawson, chief of the Royal & Ancient, recently indicated that the Holywood man would be compelled to play under the tricolour in Rio in 2016.
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This, he said, is because McIlroy has played for Ireland in previous tournaments like World Cups.
Speaking at a press conference last night ahead of the Wells Fargo Championship in North Carolina, McIlroy said: “I think ‑‑ I mean, I saw I think it’s Rule 41 in the IOC states that I still have a choice.
“It’s not like they can take it away from me. If you play for a country and then you either change nationality or whatever or if you don’t play for that certain country for three years, you still have a choice. I haven’t played for anyone, I guess, since 2011, end of 2011 World Cup. Obviously, going into the Olympics that will be five years, so I’ll still have a choice.”
Subsequent to Dawson’s comments last month, Olympic chiefs insisted that because McIlroy is from the North he has a decision to make. Asked if he saw that golf bosses were trying to take that choice out of his young hands and make his life easier, McIlroy said: “No, not really.
“I think the more it’s talked about, the more it’s just going to get blown up. So I’d rather not really talk about it until the time that I have to decide what to do.”
The double-major winner also said he won’t be playing in the world cup this year.
It’s hard to understand why an Irish man/woman wouldn’t want to play for Ireland. If he is a unionist just come out and say it. This is going on too long and to be honest he tries to talk like a yank which just confuses people more.
1. I hate people who pick up American accents like a coat.
2. He has made a PR disaster out of this.
3. His heart is obviously not in playing for Ireland, why would we want that?
4. I don’t really give a crap, golf is an individualist game for snobs.
This is no different to footballers opting to play for ROI instead of NI.
Yeah he might be born on the island of Ireland but that doesnt mean his loyalty lays there, James McClean was born in Derry the same as myself but his loyalty lays with the Irish republic which doesnt include Derry.
Ireland isnt a country, geographically its an island which contains two political entities and two differing opinions. As we all know, the last time Ireland was a single united country was under the British flag.
Eamonn thats the official term for the UK, the UK consists of 4 constituent countries – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Dont even know why I need to spell this quite obvious piece if information out.
Ireland as a whole isnt a country, hasnt been since 1921 and never will be again. We know that a large chunk of the population in the ROI detest the Unionists so dont throw a hissy fit if one refuses to play under your banner.
“Under your banner”. You mean the proud flag of the Irish Republic David? Oh Ireland will be reunited. It is inevitable. Always makes me laugh when people like this win something they’re immediately Irish. Seemingly not this time. Even the Scots are now looking to split. Kinda funny really. :)
My point is that saying never “this” and never “that” isn’t helpful when it comes to the complicated topic of identify in the north.
You and I (and McIllory) are entitled, as is every person in the north, to define their own nationality (and whom they play for). We as part of a democracy must accept that choice (sporting or otherwise).
Too many lives have been ruined by bigots and sectarian rubbish.
You mean Derry David? Never say never. The time will come. It is inevitable. I wouldn’t say I largely detest Unionists (as your lot do Irish people). I find them more quaint than anything. Living in the past and thinking the world revolves around them. While becoming a shrinking minority. And as for the bowler hats………. :D
Pretty disgusting sectarian childish comment showing a complete lack of knowledge of the facts of life in NI…a majority would vote to retain the union tomorrow…thats a majority of the population and when broken down into sectarian figures a majority of so called nationalists would vote to retain the union…source BBC spotlight poll. There are many unionists who happen to be Roman Catholics and there always have been.
Always equally funny and frustrating watching the Irish argue over who is and isn’t “Irish”.
Over in GB there is a largely secular, multicultural society that just gets on with their lives. The English, Welsh and Scottish (and the millions of new arrivals) simultaneously come under the umbrella of “British” – it’s like a Venn diagram with 3 small circles inside 1 big one. I would reckon most in GB regard ALL the people from the island of Ireland (both bits) as “Irish” – just some still want to come under that British umbrella too. And some don’t. The ones who don’t claim the term “Irish” as an exclusive sub-set that is exclusive of everything else.
Compared with GB with all it’s diversity and inclusiveness, the people of Ireland have far more in common than they do differences. It’s a source of wonder and mirth that they argue about the differences.
To misquote Rodney King “Can’t we all just get along”?!
Yes a referendum, something I welcome but sadly the NI secretary of state the Unionists and even the Irish PM have basically disregarded, only SF want one and its probably the only thing I agree with them on. I think it would erase a lot of doubt from politics here and would allow parties to then concentrate on actual problems without always reverting back to this orange and green bollocks, I would even call for the DUP to dissolve if we got a convincing rererendum victory because like SF they are an extremist party that is more concerned about a flag than jobs or education. NI needs a Protestant/Catholic party to rule it and this could be a possibilty when the national question is answered, a proper party for all and a proper opposition instead of this current crap.
He is a unionist but its Irish golf that gave him funding and support when he was a amateur. Still I dont care if he declares himself for Britain. If he see himself as British than then let him on. We can support our lads who want to ply for Ireland.
Understood, but it was NI that capped McClean and co to U-21 level then they opted to play for ROI. You have to respect a persons right to choose, it works both ways.
I dont care who he represents but its clearly the same drama being played out as in the footy, only difference is the sport itself.
Just because McIlroy was baptised a Catholic, it doesn’t mean he has to play for Ireland.
McIlroy must be envious of his great friend and fellow Irishman, Graeme McDowell, who is spared the same dilemma. This is because McDowell is a Protestant and so is expected to play for Britain.
In the Olympics last year, Paddy Barnes and Michael Conlan, both from Northern Ireland and both Catholics, boxed for Ireland
You would have though, that McIlroy, being a Catholic and given how profoundly the Troubles affected his family, would have no problem choosing. In 1972 his great-uncle Joe was shot dead by the UVF, in an effort to expel Catholics from the Orangefield area of east Belfast. McIlroy has never publicly commented on the murder.
The tragedy left a widow and four orphans, but did NOT turn the McIlroy family against the wider Protestant community. McIlroy was raised in the Belfast suburb of Holywood, a Protestant area and attended a non-denominational school. He disclosed recently that he owned a British passport
I dont see why the McIlroy family would have turned on the wider Protestant community when it was a handful of thugs that commited that act. The same logic can be applied to people who have lost family to republicanism but refuse to let that stop them mixing with Catholics/Nationalists. The vast majority of people in NI are not militants nor do they support the actions of proscribed groups.
It would be better if McIlroy did not have to choose. NI is part of the UK so he plays for Team GB. But since 1952, people from NI have been granted the explicit option by the IOC to compete at the Olympics for either Ireland or GB
As a result Catholics compete for Ireland and Protestants compete for GB. Catholics Michael Conlan and Paddy Barnes boxed for Ireland, while the three Protestant rowers competed for Team GB
If he’s going to make a big deal of it – don’t bother then! Prefer to see people representing Ireland with pride and passion then some unionist that thinks he’s doing us a favour!
Murphy, while I understand where you’re coming from I don’t 100% agree with the old stereotype that “As a result Catholics compete for Ireland and Protestants compete for GB.”
There are Protestants (which are really Christians who who don’t follow Rome) that live happily in the Republic and are proudly “Irish”. And vice versa.
We have to get away from these narrow zero sum labels if we are to move forward.
But yeah, play for whoever he wants.
You John Johnson may be sick of him but this John Johnson is not, I admire him, despite the pressure that is being put on him he won’t jump to please any one. Quick question for you and some others, how can you say “who cares” and in the next sentence say “sick of him” If you don’t care then why are you sick of him ? Let him do what is right for himself and give him the respect he deserves regardless what he decides. He appears to be a well balanced polite man who has no desire to get drawn in to political arguments.
Very simply really – which passport does he travel under, whichever one he uses is clearly what nationality he has chosen. So sick of this story. We have enough Irish players who would be proud to play for Ireland without having to pander to Rory!!!
He travels with a Uk passport not a GB one. Uk of GB and NI. Hes Irish with a UK passport. Change the Olympic tea
m to Rep of Ireland if u want but Irish purtains to the island.
The passport issue ain’t that simple. Lots of Irish people have UK passports and they choose to use them because if you get in trouble when away foreign there is more help from UK embassies available. Lots of Irish merchant navy and sailors use this route. I do think he has made his mind up. Team GB for him and the best of luck to him. Remember this is SPORT!
He is a weasel because he doesn’t want to piss people off. Which every country he thinks he is from he should be proud to show it and not tippy tappy around it. God knows plenty of golfers in Ireland would give there right nut for the honour to represent the green white and gold. As far as I’m concerned ill have harrington and Lowry even if he decides Ireland.
This is a media farce. No point discussing it until this time 2016. Waste of coverage and space. If he decides in 2016 to play for us I’ll support his decision if he decides to play for Gb I’ll ignore him and cheer for the players who represent us. End of day its his decision.
You know what “Rors” wait until someone actually picks you or asks you to accept the honour of representing your country (which ever it may be) before checking out the IOC handbook. Who knows he could be number 74 in the world by the time the Olympics come around and it won’t be an issue!
The golfing union of Ireland did everything in it’s power to help Rory and every other player whether they came from north,south ,east or west of ireland to play to the best of their ability. If it is such a big deal to him why doesn’t he play under their flag ?
Exactly. It suited McIlroy to fly under the Irish flag / GUI card in the past. There is talk of Ireland entering a rugby 7′s team in the Olympics … Imagine if the NI born players decided to go with GB much in the same way McIlroy thinks he has a ‘decision’ to make… There is no decision to make as long as he’s a GUI member.
Couldn’t care less what he does at this stage! Its not like Golf in the Olympics is important anyways when all the real emphasis is on the pro circuit…. (where he has proven to be dreadfully inconsistent).
Its getting way too much media attention and Rio is still ages away!
Tis alright Rory…we don’t want you anyway!!! No way could I support him now…he has time and time again made it clear that he doesn’t want to play for Ireland!! Why is this still an issue!?? Such a dislikable person anyway…more charm in my baby finger!!
Bang on Kat. The guy’s so far up his own backside nowadays. If he felt Irish, there would be no decision to make. Just declare for GB, honestly, nobody will care anyway Rory.
At this stage………….who cares let him go wherever he wants- no point havin somebody who doesn’t want to represent you- I hope he does but that will be his decision so I’d say let him make it and let’s all move on and stop dragging the ar*e out of it
Thus young gentleman seems to have lost all semblance of humility. He should be grateful for the talent he has been given and at least be able to say he would be honoured to play for whichever country would have him. He has become rather tiresome in his manner of dealing with issues. A few weeks with Terry Prone might be good for him. Basically a good number if people have turned off caring what he does. Plenty of great golfers out there.
When asked about playing in the irish open,he talks about playing in front of his home fans.This guy seems to enjoy this tug of war.I think most people’s mind was made up when threw the irish flag on the ground in states.There is some great young talent coming through that will be more deserving of a place on an Irish team.
Seriously. How needy are we as a country?let the guy play for who he wants. Just leave the guy alone. He doesn’t have to make up his mind for a while yet so wish the media stop asking him to decide. Enough already.
Look he wants to play for GB. If he wanted to play for Ireland he had his out! I guarantee if someone said to him that he has to play for team GB we’ve taken the decision out of your hands he’d say grand. He wouldn’t come out with any more statements on the matter he’d just turn up at the Olympics and play for them. He considers himself British he wants to represent a country that is gonna win a lot more medals than us and be part of all that glory! Let him at it. It takes a bit of shine off him from an irish perspective for the fans as we always have supported him as one of our own. But sure well get over it, think if it as being dumped for a girl with bigger boobs but no personality : )
I 100% agree, but what he should be doing dosnt really come in to this discussion. Fact is he’s playing, and what your chattin about is probably an issue for another post. That’s not to say your wrong
Let us proud to be Irish make the decision for McIlroy, we don’t want you, we are a proud race of people, so take your little Nike golf clubs and balls and play for someone else!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Who cares what he does? We’ve some very talented gilfers in Ireland that would be more than happy to represent us at the Olympic Games, and if Padraig Harrington is using that golf swing shirt we are a cert for gold!
This is the most boring sports controversy ever-let him play for who he wants, one of the sports reporters on Newstalk sounded as if he was going to cry if Rory didnt declare for ireland
Golf should never have been put in the olympics anyway
I think what hw should do is just try and declare for NI. he grew up in an area where people did not associate themselves with either ireland or england. it would be the best thing for him to do
He is a fantastic golfer and has played under the Irish flag during his amateur days. He has played under the Northern Ireland flag since turning professional.He made his views known at an early stage in this debate that he wanted to play for the UK.I don’t think he realised the controversy it would cause,but the real reason for his rethink is a financial one, his advisers believe that on the world circuit playing under the Irish flag would be more lucrative. What ever he does at this stage he can’t win but I believe it’s a decision he should make.
Totally agree Geraldine, lot of the commenters here are busy calling people names like bigot and can’t see their own bigotry, It’s beyond their understanding that someone is comfortable on the fence or either side of it, because they are so entrenched in their own views…………………..sad really
Unionists will never vote for unity with this State. The inane ugly comments posted here gives an insight into the lack of respect shown to those who do not share a narrow-minded simplistic nationalistic viewpoint. Education not indoctrination is the way forward.
Well said Nicholas & Patrick. I personally wish Rory would make his decision and gwt on with it. Its like he is glad of this extra divwrsion as its distracting from his dip in form of late and helps dodge questions regarding the nike clubs.
Having said that…as a non golfer why is this elitist sport in the olympics and why are more and more professionals taking part in olympics (tennis soccer etc) when it is supposed to be for amateurs (or at least for up & coming athletes…not household names…basketball etc)
I wish someone in our camp would do him a favour and tell him he won’t be required . It’s a bit embarrassing watching this. He’s doesn’t want to represent us, end of story.
I personally wouldn’t want anyone representing Ireland if they have to ‘think about it’! Representing Ireland should be privilege and an honour and not ‘a decision to make’! I’d nearly prefer him to choose team GB at this stage! Best of luck to the boy either way! He deserves a medal!
Don’t you just love these divisive issues. They say we detest them (unionists) and we say they detest us (nationalists) but we all seem to be very interested what each other is getting up to. At the end of the day we are who we are, IRISH!!!!!! with a little bit of British mixed in.
Correct me if I’m wrong, but could he not just play under the IOC and claim neither country. Play under the flag of the Olympics and not upset the Irish or the British. I think there were 3 competitors who weren’t representing a country at last years Olympics. Although, I don’t know what the criteria for this is.
There is a saying Irish blood, English heart. Althought I would like him to play for Ireland the heart wants what the heart wants. He looks like a child being pulled in both directions and doesnt want to hurt one country by picking the other. Let him choose and what ever he may choose he will always be the same. Irish blood, English heart.
“English heart”? There may be such a saying, but I don’t for a second believe that Rory McIlroy identifies with being “English”.
He is Irish. Or more specifically Northern Irish. He is also British. I don’t consider the terms to be mutually exclusive.
Not Irish but would be shameful to have someone on a team representing your country if he doesn’t actually want to do it. He’s already said no so many times, don’t beg him, a medal isn’t worth your nations pride
It would be better if McIlroy did not have to choose. NI is part of the UK so he plays for Team GB, end of.
But since 1952, people from NI have been granted the explicit option by the IOC to compete at the Olympics for either Ireland or GB.
As a result Catholics compete for Ireland and Protestants compete for GB. Catholics Michael Conlan and Paddy Barnes boxed for Ireland, while the three Protestant rowers competed for Team GB
Did you notice that the catholics do the working class boxing while the protestants do the middle class rowing?
But there can be exceptions. Protestant Wayne McCullough fought for Ireland. Catholic Rory to compete for Team GB. He would also stand a better chance of gold with Donald, McDowell, Rose and Westwood.
We should ask if Stephen Ireland wants to play Gol…oh wait, that ‘other thing’ didn’t work out either! Rory can play for whoever he wants. Either way now his choice will reek of some pressure or other. More power to the lad
Leave the poor guy alone! He will play for who he wants to play for. There is enough pressure in an Olympic tournament without having to feel pressured into what team to play for.
If only we had an all Ireland team, or a northern Irish team, but if s and buts where candy and nuts etc etc.
If he plays for Ireland great, but he has decided on gb and we should respect that. And cheer him on!
dont care ,the fai has done well out of players from the north declaring for the republic over the years.the shoes on the other foot now who ever he plays for i wish him well
I can’t think of one that we would have missed if they stayed with the North. Don’t get me wrong I think all players on the island should play for the one team, I just think we have yet to get any player that has made a difference.
Lets forget about the him, we’re bigger than that. Put it to bed and if he wants to play for china I don’t care about him ungrateful little wart, we don’t need him plus he should have the balls to say he is British,
If the guy would just come out and say Who he was playing for by the time the comp came around it would be all forgotten about but I think our little Great Britain tiger woods wanna be likes the bit of attention who cares not as if he will win it for Ireland anyway if he plays with us would be better for Ireland if he played with gb the t#*t time to grow a pair Rory and become an adult stop acting like a spoilt little child make the decision and move on
He is a great golfer .He should declate now . Pity NI cannot cannot enter their own team . leaving it hanging mid air for the next few years will have an adverse effect on his game .
Rory McElroy Olympic hopes should be down to him. The GUI or the OCI should not push him to choose who to play for. Either should any British organisations.
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Wish he’d just come out and say it….. He wants to play for gb….
It’s hard to understand why an Irish man/woman wouldn’t want to play for Ireland. If he is a unionist just come out and say it. This is going on too long and to be honest he tries to talk like a yank which just confuses people more.
Most of them identify as British. It’s up to him!
He has said it already.
Them?
If only N.I had a team, then this wouldnt be an issue
There were more medals won last year by Irishmen and Irishwomen competing for Team GB than for Team Ireland.
1. I hate people who pick up American accents like a coat.
2. He has made a PR disaster out of this.
3. His heart is obviously not in playing for Ireland, why would we want that?
4. I don’t really give a crap, golf is an individualist game for snobs.
I agree with you, but you lost me on point 4…
This is no different to footballers opting to play for ROI instead of NI.
Yeah he might be born on the island of Ireland but that doesnt mean his loyalty lays there, James McClean was born in Derry the same as myself but his loyalty lays with the Irish republic which doesnt include Derry.
Ireland isnt a country, geographically its an island which contains two political entities and two differing opinions. As we all know, the last time Ireland was a single united country was under the British flag.
Ireland is a country. read your constitution. The north of ireland on the other is a disputed territory
Northern Ireland is a constituent country of the UK.
@voiceofsense “I don’t really give a crap”…but he still takes the time to give his opinion. Idiot.
Let him play for whoever he wants to.whats the big deal
The great James Joyce observed of the soul of a man born on the island of Ireland, “there are nets flung at it to hold it back from flight”.
But these are nets to which McIlroy has long refused to be tethered
David your a dicxhead,your wasting your time also as i am.
Actually it is not David. The official term is the United Kingdom of Great Britain….and Northern Irand.
What do you mean most of them ??
Eamonn thats the official term for the UK, the UK consists of 4 constituent countries – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Dont even know why I need to spell this quite obvious piece if information out.
Ireland as a whole isnt a country, hasnt been since 1921 and never will be again. We know that a large chunk of the population in the ROI detest the Unionists so dont throw a hissy fit if one refuses to play under your banner.
“Under your banner”. You mean the proud flag of the Irish Republic David? Oh Ireland will be reunited. It is inevitable. Always makes me laugh when people like this win something they’re immediately Irish. Seemingly not this time. Even the Scots are now looking to split. Kinda funny really. :)
The flag might be proud to you but it means nothing to Unionists such as myself and others like McIlroy, its not our flag and it never will be.
Ireland wont be united, the future lays in our hands and no way will we vote to be ruled by a country and people that largely detest us.
Same way “your” flag flies over “your” city hall? The definition of never in the north is debatable.
The people will choose, not one section. Those days are over.
Let McIlroy play for whomever he chooses. Self-determination is everyone’s right.
Its not my city hall, im from L’derry. Couldnt care less if the union flag flies over Belfast or not, I know what I am already and that isnt changing.
My point is that saying never “this” and never “that” isn’t helpful when it comes to the complicated topic of identify in the north.
You and I (and McIllory) are entitled, as is every person in the north, to define their own nationality (and whom they play for). We as part of a democracy must accept that choice (sporting or otherwise).
Too many lives have been ruined by bigots and sectarian rubbish.
The quirks of being born in the 6 counties!
You mean Derry David? Never say never. The time will come. It is inevitable. I wouldn’t say I largely detest Unionists (as your lot do Irish people). I find them more quaint than anything. Living in the past and thinking the world revolves around them. While becoming a shrinking minority. And as for the bowler hats………. :D
Pretty disgusting sectarian childish comment showing a complete lack of knowledge of the facts of life in NI…a majority would vote to retain the union tomorrow…thats a majority of the population and when broken down into sectarian figures a majority of so called nationalists would vote to retain the union…source BBC spotlight poll. There are many unionists who happen to be Roman Catholics and there always have been.
Na if i’d meant Derry i’d have written Derry
Some here would be doing well to read and grasp what Colm has written there, sectarian headcounts are a thing of the past.
Yes I know what you are too ..a cxxt ..
Colm M – no more childish than what you said. The ultimate proof will be a referendum. End of story.
A pure british one at that ,from Londonderry to Ulsters orange fields ,and proud God Save Our Queen.
What exactly defines “British” nowadays? Even the Scots – whom you so admire – want to jump ship. The empire is dead. Thankfully.
Always equally funny and frustrating watching the Irish argue over who is and isn’t “Irish”.
Over in GB there is a largely secular, multicultural society that just gets on with their lives. The English, Welsh and Scottish (and the millions of new arrivals) simultaneously come under the umbrella of “British” – it’s like a Venn diagram with 3 small circles inside 1 big one. I would reckon most in GB regard ALL the people from the island of Ireland (both bits) as “Irish” – just some still want to come under that British umbrella too. And some don’t. The ones who don’t claim the term “Irish” as an exclusive sub-set that is exclusive of everything else.
Compared with GB with all it’s diversity and inclusiveness, the people of Ireland have far more in common than they do differences. It’s a source of wonder and mirth that they argue about the differences.
To misquote Rodney King “Can’t we all just get along”?!
Yes a referendum, something I welcome but sadly the NI secretary of state the Unionists and even the Irish PM have basically disregarded, only SF want one and its probably the only thing I agree with them on. I think it would erase a lot of doubt from politics here and would allow parties to then concentrate on actual problems without always reverting back to this orange and green bollocks, I would even call for the DUP to dissolve if we got a convincing rererendum victory because like SF they are an extremist party that is more concerned about a flag than jobs or education. NI needs a Protestant/Catholic party to rule it and this could be a possibilty when the national question is answered, a proper party for all and a proper opposition instead of this current crap.
Where is L Derry? Is it beside free Derry ?
He is a unionist but its Irish golf that gave him funding and support when he was a amateur. Still I dont care if he declares himself for Britain. If he see himself as British than then let him on. We can support our lads who want to ply for Ireland.
Understood, but it was NI that capped McClean and co to U-21 level then they opted to play for ROI. You have to respect a persons right to choose, it works both ways.
I dont care who he represents but its clearly the same drama being played out as in the footy, only difference is the sport itself.
Golf is the only sport where overweight middle aged white men can call themselves athletes
Sorry my mistake..I said sport..it’s actually a meaningless time killing slow activity
Its a sport regardless what your opinion of it is, darts is a sport for christ sake, snooker etc
Darts
Just because McIlroy was baptised a Catholic, it doesn’t mean he has to play for Ireland.
McIlroy must be envious of his great friend and fellow Irishman, Graeme McDowell, who is spared the same dilemma. This is because McDowell is a Protestant and so is expected to play for Britain.
In the Olympics last year, Paddy Barnes and Michael Conlan, both from Northern Ireland and both Catholics, boxed for Ireland
You would have though, that McIlroy, being a Catholic and given how profoundly the Troubles affected his family, would have no problem choosing. In 1972 his great-uncle Joe was shot dead by the UVF, in an effort to expel Catholics from the Orangefield area of east Belfast. McIlroy has never publicly commented on the murder.
The tragedy left a widow and four orphans, but did NOT turn the McIlroy family against the wider Protestant community. McIlroy was raised in the Belfast suburb of Holywood, a Protestant area and attended a non-denominational school. He disclosed recently that he owned a British passport
At least snooker or darts don’t take acres of land than could be used for far more better purposes
I dont see why the McIlroy family would have turned on the wider Protestant community when it was a handful of thugs that commited that act. The same logic can be applied to people who have lost family to republicanism but refuse to let that stop them mixing with Catholics/Nationalists. The vast majority of people in NI are not militants nor do they support the actions of proscribed groups.
Beg to differ on that colonel, you obviously have never seen baseball being played
Darts isn’t a sport. Neither are snooker or golf. Whoever labelled them as such in the first place is a moron.
Its not a sport is a paid hobby the only reason they get paid is because its on tv and sponsership, and its an over paid hobby at that
Yea like chess is a sport lol
It would be better if McIlroy did not have to choose. NI is part of the UK so he plays for Team GB. But since 1952, people from NI have been granted the explicit option by the IOC to compete at the Olympics for either Ireland or GB
As a result Catholics compete for Ireland and Protestants compete for GB. Catholics Michael Conlan and Paddy Barnes boxed for Ireland, while the three Protestant rowers competed for Team GB
If he’s going to make a big deal of it – don’t bother then! Prefer to see people representing Ireland with pride and passion then some unionist that thinks he’s doing us a favour!
Not really, I’d have thought that people would allow other people to move on
Pubic head can go and play with England .. turn his back on Ireland the W##KER
Jayus randy are you still here just more negative
Darts.
Like what? More ghost towns
Cheers David golad we sing out of the same hymnbook.
Actually he’s not a unionist but I agree with you. If he doesn’t want to play for us then let him on. You never know who we’ll have available by then.
Murphy, while I understand where you’re coming from I don’t 100% agree with the old stereotype that “As a result Catholics compete for Ireland and Protestants compete for GB.”
There are Protestants (which are really Christians who who don’t follow Rome) that live happily in the Republic and are proudly “Irish”. And vice versa.
We have to get away from these narrow zero sum labels if we are to move forward.
But yeah, play for whoever he wants.
Who cares? If he wants to play for GB let him. Sick of him anyway.
He already did, then retracted it instantly.
Uuugh, wrong comment.
Step up Padraig and Shane….. Do us proud
Don’t forget Darren Clarke … He can be a formidable player under pressure and he is a proud Irishman
Darren Clarke and Graeme McDowell both have British passports.
Its the red hand coming out in him, They love a bit of a protest.
Red Hand? Irish gaelic symbol
I suspect Darren might consider himself to be British, a Guinness-drinking one mind you.
:-))
Sorry but darren is a more bitter ulsterman than mcillroy,big prody.
You John Johnson may be sick of him but this John Johnson is not, I admire him, despite the pressure that is being put on him he won’t jump to please any one. Quick question for you and some others, how can you say “who cares” and in the next sentence say “sick of him” If you don’t care then why are you sick of him ? Let him do what is right for himself and give him the respect he deserves regardless what he decides. He appears to be a well balanced polite man who has no desire to get drawn in to political arguments.
Looks like he doesn’t want to play for us, so let him on. Rather have a player who will try hard then someone forced.
Let them have him…he’s shite anyway
P.s. To everybody..just go to YouTube and watch GEORGE CARLIN “GOLF”…funny and true as hell
Very simply really – which passport does he travel under, whichever one he uses is clearly what nationality he has chosen. So sick of this story. We have enough Irish players who would be proud to play for Ireland without having to pander to Rory!!!
He travels with a Uk passport not a GB one. Uk of GB and NI. Hes Irish with a UK passport. Change the Olympic tea
m to Rep of Ireland if u want but Irish purtains to the island.
The passport issue ain’t that simple. Lots of Irish people have UK passports and they choose to use them because if you get in trouble when away foreign there is more help from UK embassies available. Lots of Irish merchant navy and sailors use this route. I do think he has made his mind up. Team GB for him and the best of luck to him. Remember this is SPORT!
I personally don’t give a hoot who he plays for. If he was man enough he would have made a decision by now, the little weasel that he is.
Can’t see how you would think he’s a weasel just because he doesn’t wanna piss anyone off?
He’ll make his own decision in his own time. He’s class to watch no matter what flag he plays under.
He is a weasel because he doesn’t want to piss people off. Which every country he thinks he is from he should be proud to show it and not tippy tappy around it. God knows plenty of golfers in Ireland would give there right nut for the honour to represent the green white and gold. As far as I’m concerned ill have harrington and Lowry even if he decides Ireland.
This is a media farce. No point discussing it until this time 2016. Waste of coverage and space. If he decides in 2016 to play for us I’ll support his decision if he decides to play for Gb I’ll ignore him and cheer for the players who represent us. End of day its his decision.
Let him play for GB, and kick him in the arse on the way out the door
You know what “Rors” wait until someone actually picks you or asks you to accept the honour of representing your country (which ever it may be) before checking out the IOC handbook. Who knows he could be number 74 in the world by the time the Olympics come around and it won’t be an issue!
If Rory doesn’t play it will allow Shane Lowry to play, now there is one proud Irish Man …… Off with you Rory …
Let him make his own decision. Choice is his and his alone. Chap is gifted.
He’s a gifted knob though. Enough already, either put up or shut up, it’s a non story.
The golfing union of Ireland did everything in it’s power to help Rory and every other player whether they came from north,south ,east or west of ireland to play to the best of their ability. If it is such a big deal to him why doesn’t he play under their flag ?
Exactly. It suited McIlroy to fly under the Irish flag / GUI card in the past. There is talk of Ireland entering a rugby 7′s team in the Olympics … Imagine if the NI born players decided to go with GB much in the same way McIlroy thinks he has a ‘decision’ to make… There is no decision to make as long as he’s a GUI member.
Its his decision. Im not bothered either way. Theres plenty more in life to see and do!
Couldn’t care less what he does at this stage! Its not like Golf in the Olympics is important anyways when all the real emphasis is on the pro circuit…. (where he has proven to be dreadfully inconsistent).
Its getting way too much media attention and Rio is still ages away!
You dont get to world number one without being consistent.
Well he lost No.1 status just as fast as he got it which proves my point!
in your mind only it proves a point………..to most others it proves changing clubs even for the best in the world is a hard task
Tis alright Rory…we don’t want you anyway!!! No way could I support him now…he has time and time again made it clear that he doesn’t want to play for Ireland!! Why is this still an issue!?? Such a dislikable person anyway…more charm in my baby finger!!
Bang on Kat. The guy’s so far up his own backside nowadays. If he felt Irish, there would be no decision to make. Just declare for GB, honestly, nobody will care anyway Rory.
Foe people that don’t care you have very strong views
At this stage………….who cares let him go wherever he wants- no point havin somebody who doesn’t want to represent you- I hope he does but that will be his decision so I’d say let him make it and let’s all move on and stop dragging the ar*e out of it
McIlroy, or any other professional sportsperson, should not be allowed to enter the Olympics.
The Olympics should be for amateur sports men and women
At last someone who thinks the same the olymics has lost its appeal now its not an amature games anymore its about money now
He is a fantastic player and he should be allowed to play for the country of his choice.
Grand. Hope he picks Mongolia so!
Lord your a tosser
@Loverocket,
Post of the article so far! I nearly choked on my tea…
Mongolia it is
Ah Knobert, where’s your sense of humour? I think someone needs a free hug!! :)
Your right lord I only go on this to wind people up,but take a raincheck on the hug thing ha ha
If you are not proud outright to say you will play for one or the other… you deserve neither!
I couldn’t even give a shite what he does. I have no time for Northern Irish bigotry.
Thus young gentleman seems to have lost all semblance of humility. He should be grateful for the talent he has been given and at least be able to say he would be honoured to play for whichever country would have him. He has become rather tiresome in his manner of dealing with issues. A few weeks with Terry Prone might be good for him. Basically a good number if people have turned off caring what he does. Plenty of great golfers out there.
Having golf in the Olympics is a joke, while they got rid of wrestling.
McIlroy might be married to Caroline wotshername by the time of the Olympics and could be playing for Denmark!
When asked about playing in the irish open,he talks about playing in front of his home fans.This guy seems to enjoy this tug of war.I think most people’s mind was made up when threw the irish flag on the ground in states.There is some great young talent coming through that will be more deserving of a place on an Irish team.
Seriously. How needy are we as a country?let the guy play for who he wants. Just leave the guy alone. He doesn’t have to make up his mind for a while yet so wish the media stop asking him to decide. Enough already.
The big issue for me is why is golf even allowed in the Olympics? Golfers are not athletes. What next, darts? Tiddlywinks?
Chess even
I dont have a problem with golf in the olympics as it is a sport, I do think though it should be restricted to amateurs just like the other sports.
Doesn’t matter – he won’t win anything with his new Nike clubs.
I guess he substituted sponsor money for prize money…
Look he wants to play for GB. If he wanted to play for Ireland he had his out! I guarantee if someone said to him that he has to play for team GB we’ve taken the decision out of your hands he’d say grand. He wouldn’t come out with any more statements on the matter he’d just turn up at the Olympics and play for them. He considers himself British he wants to represent a country that is gonna win a lot more medals than us and be part of all that glory! Let him at it. It takes a bit of shine off him from an irish perspective for the fans as we always have supported him as one of our own. But sure well get over it, think if it as being dumped for a girl with bigger boobs but no personality : )
He should not be competing for either country.
Only amateurs, not professionals, should be allowed enter the Olympics
I 100% agree, but what he should be doing dosnt really come in to this discussion. Fact is he’s playing, and what your chattin about is probably an issue for another post. That’s not to say your wrong
He has a mental age of 6…. at best
He’s an Irishman, who else would he play for.
Question is, does he consider himself as Irish …. With his recent attitude I think not!
Let us proud to be Irish make the decision for McIlroy, we don’t want you, we are a proud race of people, so take your little Nike golf clubs and balls and play for someone else!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Who cares what he does? We’ve some very talented gilfers in Ireland that would be more than happy to represent us at the Olympic Games, and if Padraig Harrington is using that golf swing shirt we are a cert for gold!
He obviously wants to play for GB just doesn’t have the balls to do so does this mean he won’t represent Ireland in world cup next year with Gmac??
heard him in an interview and he is not playing in world cup
This is the most boring sports controversy ever-let him play for who he wants, one of the sports reporters on Newstalk sounded as if he was going to cry if Rory didnt declare for ireland
Golf should never have been put in the olympics anyway
I think what hw should do is just try and declare for NI. he grew up in an area where people did not associate themselves with either ireland or england. it would be the best thing for him to do
It is like someone having to choose between two girls – he just cannot say it to the girl he’s splitting up with
He is a fantastic golfer and has played under the Irish flag during his amateur days. He has played under the Northern Ireland flag since turning professional.He made his views known at an early stage in this debate that he wanted to play for the UK.I don’t think he realised the controversy it would cause,but the real reason for his rethink is a financial one, his advisers believe that on the world circuit playing under the Irish flag would be more lucrative. What ever he does at this stage he can’t win but I believe it’s a decision he should make.
I think many in the North don’t feel Irish or British. They’ve had their own unique history and feel Northern Irish.I feel sorry for the guy.
Totally agree Geraldine, lot of the commenters here are busy calling people names like bigot and can’t see their own bigotry, It’s beyond their understanding that someone is comfortable on the fence or either side of it, because they are so entrenched in their own views…………………..sad really
he’s about as likable as tiger. unreal whinger face on the idiot.
he’s great example of someone who can’t recognize their privilege. self-absorbed pos
This must be what Holly Sweeney felt like. I think we all as a nation should go on come dine with me dressed up as Great Britain!
If he chooses GB his stock will fall in the US,
And please explain why that would be. This is golf – he doesn’t rely on an Irish American boxing support base in Boston.
Unionists will never vote for unity with this State. The inane ugly comments posted here gives an insight into the lack of respect shown to those who do not share a narrow-minded simplistic nationalistic viewpoint. Education not indoctrination is the way forward.
The comments on here are a disgrace. Full of hate.
Well said Nicholas & Patrick. I personally wish Rory would make his decision and gwt on with it. Its like he is glad of this extra divwrsion as its distracting from his dip in form of late and helps dodge questions regarding the nike clubs.
Having said that…as a non golfer why is this elitist sport in the olympics and why are more and more professionals taking part in olympics (tennis soccer etc) when it is supposed to be for amateurs (or at least for up & coming athletes…not household names…basketball etc)
I wish someone in our camp would do him a favour and tell him he won’t be required . It’s a bit embarrassing watching this. He’s doesn’t want to represent us, end of story.
Couldn’t bloody care less what he does.
Golf shouldnt be in the olympics – athletics, swimming etc, yes, but not golf
Don’t care how good he is, the brits can have him. He’s a knob!
He’s a knob with a very good aim
He might develop a mystery shoulder injury and play for noone.
Dont want u anyway
I personally wouldn’t want anyone representing Ireland if they have to ‘think about it’! Representing Ireland should be privilege and an honour and not ‘a decision to make’! I’d nearly prefer him to choose team GB at this stage! Best of luck to the boy either way! He deserves a medal!
British wannabe would rather play with the yanks tbh
He going to disappoint lots of people either way so why make the announcement now.
In all fairness it doesn’t matter
Hope he gets the all clear from his dentist before the competition!!!
Don’t you just love these divisive issues. They say we detest them (unionists) and we say they detest us (nationalists) but we all seem to be very interested what each other is getting up to. At the end of the day we are who we are, IRISH!!!!!! with a little bit of British mixed in.
Have to agree there why can’t he just be from n Ireland any way if I’m correct it says great Briton and N Ireland on his passport any it’s up to him
Who cares what ever he decides their will be discontent on each side Best bet Roy stay at home and count your millions
Correct me if I’m wrong, but could he not just play under the IOC and claim neither country. Play under the flag of the Olympics and not upset the Irish or the British. I think there were 3 competitors who weren’t representing a country at last years Olympics. Although, I don’t know what the criteria for this is.
There is a saying Irish blood, English heart. Althought I would like him to play for Ireland the heart wants what the heart wants. He looks like a child being pulled in both directions and doesnt want to hurt one country by picking the other. Let him choose and what ever he may choose he will always be the same. Irish blood, English heart.
“English heart”? There may be such a saying, but I don’t for a second believe that Rory McIlroy identifies with being “English”.
He is Irish. Or more specifically Northern Irish. He is also British. I don’t consider the terms to be mutually exclusive.
Not Irish but would be shameful to have someone on a team representing your country if he doesn’t actually want to do it. He’s already said no so many times, don’t beg him, a medal isn’t worth your nations pride
It would be better if McIlroy did not have to choose. NI is part of the UK so he plays for Team GB, end of.
But since 1952, people from NI have been granted the explicit option by the IOC to compete at the Olympics for either Ireland or GB.
As a result Catholics compete for Ireland and Protestants compete for GB. Catholics Michael Conlan and Paddy Barnes boxed for Ireland, while the three Protestant rowers competed for Team GB
Did you notice that the catholics do the working class boxing while the protestants do the middle class rowing?
But there can be exceptions. Protestant Wayne McCullough fought for Ireland. Catholic Rory to compete for Team GB. He would also stand a better chance of gold with Donald, McDowell, Rose and Westwood.
If he wants a choice he’ll need to sit before a panel of six psychiatrists
Its not about the country he couldn’t care less, its about the money
Of course he always has the choice! He can choose not to play!
F#%k him let him go to where ever he wants acting like he is as big as tiger woods now he is a gods player not a great player like woods is
Good player def not a god like player attention seeking Pratt
We should ask if Stephen Ireland wants to play Gol…oh wait, that ‘other thing’ didn’t work out either! Rory can play for whoever he wants. Either way now his choice will reek of some pressure or other. More power to the lad
I believe that Peter Charles ,the show jumper has ridden for both Ireland and GB. So why not play for both countries. Now the same year of course
ohmygod. OH. MY. GOD……. He looks so sexy in that picture, I’m getting weak!
Don’t think it really matters who he plays for – if he decided to play for Trinidad & Tobago he would still get the backing of 90% of Irish viewers.
Leave the poor guy alone! He will play for who he wants to play for. There is enough pressure in an Olympic tournament without having to feel pressured into what team to play for.
If only we had an all Ireland team, or a northern Irish team, but if s and buts where candy and nuts etc etc.
If he plays for Ireland great, but he has decided on gb and we should respect that. And cheer him on!
dont care ,the fai has done well out of players from the north declaring for the republic over the years.the shoes on the other foot now who ever he plays for i wish him well
I can’t think of one that we would have missed if they stayed with the North. Don’t get me wrong I think all players on the island should play for the one team, I just think we have yet to get any player that has made a difference.
obviously kevin you know little about golf, so dont comment get a night job or go to ged
Lets forget about the him, we’re bigger than that. Put it to bed and if he wants to play for china I don’t care about him ungrateful little wart, we don’t need him plus he should have the balls to say he is British,
If the guy would just come out and say Who he was playing for by the time the comp came around it would be all forgotten about but I think our little Great Britain tiger woods wanna be likes the bit of attention who cares not as if he will win it for Ireland anyway if he plays with us would be better for Ireland if he played with gb the t#*t time to grow a pair Rory and become an adult stop acting like a spoilt little child make the decision and move on
I think he should play for a neutral country like north korea!!!
You lot are gas.
I’d like to think he could do whatever he wanted, … But isn’t he owned by Nike now?
Oops! Typing error, ” a good number of people”.
He is a great golfer .He should declate now . Pity NI cannot cannot enter their own team . leaving it hanging mid air for the next few years will have an adverse effect on his game .
Rory McElroy Olympic hopes should be down to him. The GUI or the OCI should not push him to choose who to play for. Either should any British organisations.
BTW Croquet was an Olympic sport! As was chess (?)
What ever passport Rory holds that’s who he should play for or has he got 2 passports.