Rory McIlroy was in a playful mood when asked about Andrew ‘Chubby’ Chandler's prediction of a shock move to LIV Golf in the foreseeable future.
McIlroy has softened his stance against LIV in recent months having previously been completely opposed to the rival tour.
Speaking last summer, McIlroy admitted to still "hating LIV" after a deal was announced with the Public Investment Fund and the PGA Tour.
But the four-time major champion has changed tact recently and appears to be trying to mend bridges with those who jumped ship to LIV.
Rory McIlroy jokingly refused to rule out a move to LIV Golf
PGA
The change in stance from McIlroy prompted Chandler, who stopped working with the golfing icon in 2010, to suggest his former client could one day make the shock switch to LIV.
Chandler claimed "if Rahm can do it, most guys can do it" and "there’s a 10 per cent possibility he’s favouring his way to sign for LIV".
McIlroy joining LIV would send shockwaves through the world of golf and doesn't appear to be realistic given his outspoken remarks.
And the 34-year-old seemingly didn't give his former manager's comments much weight while speaking ahead of the Cognizant Classic this week.
When asked when the last time he spoke to Chandler was and why his former manager said what he did, McIlroy gave a playful response.
"I think he's writing a book, so there is that," he said with a smile.
"I spoke to Chubby, might have saw him in the Middle East at the start of the year.
"Never know. He might know a few things. Who knows."
The Northern Irishman was then asked whether Chandler was on the right path in saying there was a good chance of him joining LIV before giving it a 10 per cent chance.
Rory McIlroy was in a playful mood throughout the press conference
PGA
McIlroy replied: "Somewhere in the middle maybe. Who knows."
He appeared in jovial spirits throughout the press conference where he also spoke about how long he feels he has at the top of the game.
"I said that Phil and Tiger were on the back nine of their career and got a lot of s*** for it," McIlroy added.
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Rory McIlroy has been outspoken against LIV Golf
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"I would say I've been a pro -- I turned pro in '07. What is this, my 17th year? Another 17 I'll be 51.
"Yeah, I would say I'm pretty close to the turn at this point, if not a little bit after. Maybe on the 10th green or 11th tee."
McIlroy then jokingly added that he would "walk away" if he manages to complete the Career Grand Slam by winning the Masters.
