'It's important to be here' - Rory McIlroy explains why he's back for FedEx Cup opener

The four-time major champion opted to sit out FedEx Cup opener in 2025 and only join the action in the second round, a decision that drew criticism from some within the PGA Tour.

This year, McIlroy will tee it up at TPC Southwind and is part of Thursday's featured pairing alongside World No 1 Scottie Scheffler.

Speaking on Wednesday, McIlroy said several factors influenced his decision to play, including his lighter schedule this season.

"A few different things went into that decision," McIlroy said. "I think having four weeks off going into the last two events of the year was going to be a little too much for me in terms of being competitive.

"This is a good week. Obviously I want to play well, but it's also a good week to just see where my game is, doing a little practice, as much as I can in the heat.

"I think it's important to be here, it's the Tour's playoffs and I think it's important for all the players to be here. It's important for me to be here and looking forward to it."

McIlroy's decision to skip last year's opening playoff event had raised concerns among PGA Tour officials that other players could follow his example.

Peter Malnati, a player director on the PGA Tour Policy Board, said at the time that the Tour was "very concerned" and did not want McIlroy's decision to set a precedent.

McIlroy is among a strong field in Memphis, with Scheffler, Cameron Young, Matt Fitzpatrick, Xander Schauffele, Collin Morikawa and defending FedEx Cup champion Tommy Fleetwood also competing.