'Two things can be true': McIlroy defends India appearance after Kisner criticism

McIlroy, making his first appearance in India at the inaugural tournament in New Delhi, rejected the suggestion that financial incentives undermined his interest in growing golf internationally.

"Two things can be true at the same time," McIlroy said. "People can get paid to come and play at a tournament, but at the same time, do it from a place of a genuine interest of trying to bring the sport to another country, a developing country."

He highlighted India's potential as a market for golf, adding: "The middle class in India is larger than the whole population of the United States. It's a huge market for golf."

Kisner had questioned McIlroy's motives on the Fore Play Podcast, claiming the Northern Irishman was more interested in collecting his reported fee than expanding the sport's global reach.

"He doesn't want to globally expand in India; he wants to get his $10 million bucks and go play in India," Kisner said.

The four-time PGA Tour winner also suggested players had been asked to promote the tournament as part of their appearance agreements.

McIlroy said he had not seen Kisner's comments before being asked about them by reporters in New Delhi, adding: "I don't know why me being in India would make Kis need to comment on that."

McIlroy endured a disappointing finish to the tournament, tying for 42nd at four under par, 17 shots behind winner Eugenio Lopez-Chacarra.