Rory McIlroy expressed worries about the PGA Tour's proposed two-track schedule system during a Tuesday press conference at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club ahead of the U.S. Open.
The Northern Irish golfer said Track Two events would resemble a "glorified Korn Ferry event." He specifically mentioned the Canadian Open, which he has won twice, as an event that should not be downgraded under the plan.
McIlroy noted that the Tour's pre-2022 structure worked well before LIV Golf introduced larger purses and no-cut formats. He described LIV's influence as creating a "false economy" that forced the PGA Tour to increase prize funds and reduce fields to retain talent.
The changes, first reported by the Sports Business Journal, could take effect in 2028 with 23 elevated Track One events and 20 Track Two tournaments. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp is expected to provide more details next week at the Travelers Championship.
Canadian players Nick Taylor and Corey Conners also voiced concerns about their national open potentially losing status if sponsors do not commit sufficient funds.