At the time, he was deferring on an opportunity to participate in the return of golf to the Olympic Games, golfer Rory McIllroy claimed that concerns over the Zika virus were the main deciding factor in his decision to demur.
It has recently come to light that it was a conflict of whether he would represent Great Britain or Ireland in the 2016 Rio Games that factored heavily in his decision.
McIllroy expressed resentment that he was being forced by the Olympic organisers to decide for which country he would play, something he considered a hassle beyond any possible benefit.
McIllroy can be obtuse at times, and since he could not represent two countries, it is baffling to consider his recent comments that suggested that the choice somehow interfered with his self-identity.
He exchanged text messages with gold medal winner Justin Rose, who had no such nationalistic identity issues, indicating that he would have been uncomfortable standing on the podium and hearing either the British or Irish national anthem being played.
“I did not get into golf to grow the game,” said McIllroy.
No, Rory, the game was grown before you came along, thanks to true men, such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Bruce Crampton and Peter Thompson, men whose earning for entire careers do not equal what you can earn in half a season, thanks to their pioneering.
