Doubt cast on Olympics rule that makes Rory Irish

The Irish Olympic Council were last night remaining tightlipped over claims made by golf chiefs that Rory McIlroy may only be eligible to compete for Ireland in the 2016 Rio Games.

The world No 2’s international dilemma is due to the fact athletes born in Northern Ireland are eligible to represent Great Britain or Ireland at Olympic Games. McIlroy last year voiced concern about the impact a decision to represent either flag in the Olympics would have on his life and hinted that he might “not play at all maybe just because I don’t want to upset too many people...”

However, Royal & Ancient chief executive Peter Dawson hinted this week that McIlroy might have to represent Ireland because he has played for them in two World Cups. Dawson said: “Because of Rory’s history of playing for Ireland at amateur level and World Cup level, there may be an Olympic regulation that because you played in a previous world championship for a certain country, that has to carry with you.”