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24th Feb 2017

Rory McIlroy’s statement on his decision to play a round of golf with Donald Trump

Tony Cuddihy

Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy has spoken out against those who have labelled him a ‘fascist’.

Rory McIlroy has tweeted about his decision to play a round of golf with American President Donald Trump last week.

The 27-year-old from Northern Ireland insists that his decision to hit the tees with Trump was not a political endorsement of any kind, and says that being labelled a fascist or a bigot is “ridiculous.”

“I don’t agree with everything my friends or family say or do, but I still play golf with them. Last week, I was invited to play golf with the President of the United States,” McIlroy wrote.

“Wether [sic] you respect the person who holds that position or not, you respect the office that he holds. This wasn’t an endorsement nor a political statement of any kind. It was, quite simply, a round of golf. Golf was our common ground, nothing else.

“I’ve travelled all over the world and have been fortunate enough to befriend people from many different countries, beliefs and cultures.

“To be called a fascist and a bigot by some people because I spent time in someone’s company is just ridiculous. I hope, to some degree, this clarifies my decision to accept the invitation that was extended to me.

“Thanks to everyone for your continued support and I look forward to making my comeback in Mexico next week!”

McIlroy has shown more and more that he is not particularly moved by the views of others, and that is reflected in a statement that many people may feel is out of touch with the public mood.

https://twitter.com/RichieMcCormack/status/835228208068980736

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