Rory McIlroy has issued a pointed challenge to fellow Ryder Cup stars Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton, calling on the LIV Golf pair to settle their outstanding DP World Tour sanctions.
Speaking at the Dubai Desert Classic on Wednesday, the world number two suggested the duo now have an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to European golf.
McIlroy referenced the criticism levelled at American players for accepting payment to compete in the biennial contest.
"We went really hard on the Americans about being paid to play the Ryder Cup, and we also said that we would pay to play in Ryder Cups," he remarked. "There's two guys that can prove it."
Rory McIlroy has called out Jon Rahm and Tyrell Hatton over returning to the PGA Tour
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The Spanish and English golfers have accumulated fines totalling several million pounds since their departures to the Saudi-backed circuit two years ago.
Rahm has estimated his personal bill stands at approximately £2.6 million.
Both players have made clear they will not pay the sanctions themselves, instead seeking a compromise with tour officials.
Their participation in September's triumph at Bethpage Black was only possible through a protracted appeals process that remains unresolved.
The legal position appears unfavourable for the rebels, with the DP World Tour having already established precedent in their favour.
Jon Rahm has made it clear he will not pay his full fine and is seeking a compromise
| GETTYShould they refuse to settle, their membership and eligibility for the 2027 contest at Adare Manor would be forfeit.
McIlroy defended the tour's approach to enforcing its regulations.
"Look, I think any members' organisation like this has a right to uphold its rules and regulations," he stated.
"What the DP World Tour are doing is upholding their rules and regulations and we, as members, sign a document at the start of every year and agree to these rules and regulations. The people that made the option to go to LIV knew what they were."
The Northern Irishman's intervention highlights what some view as a contradiction in the pair's position.
Having championed the European ethos of playing for pride rather than payment, Rahm and Hatton now find themselves resisting financial obligations to the very organisation that facilitates their Ryder Cup participation.
Hatton, who is defending his title in Dubai, offered a measured response when questioned about McIlroy's remarks.
Tyrell Hatton was coy when asked about Rory McIlroy's comments
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"I've literally just come off a Pro-Am so I don't really have anything to add to what he said," he told reporters.
On the broader dispute, the Englishman indicated negotiations continue behind closed doors.
"It's still with legal teams and there's guys that are still in conversations working it all out," he explained.
Hatton expressed his desire to remain part of future European teams, noting he has competed in the last four editions of the contest.
Reports indicated that a resolution could emerge before the LIV season commences on 4 February.