McIlroy to Skip BMW PGA Championship's Pro-Am Event

The BMW PGA Championship, the flagship event of the DP World Tour, is set to take place at Wentworth starting this Wednesday. This year's tournament promises to be an exciting one, with several big names in the golfing world set to compete.

Defending champion Billy Horschel will aim to retain his title, having won the tournament last year. He will be joined by fellow LIV Golfers Jon Rahm and Brooks Koepka, who have also confirmed their participation. Rory McIlroy, the biggest name in the 12-player line-up, will unfortunately miss the Celebrity Pro-Am due to a prior commitment. Tom Grennan will participate instead.

McIlroy, who won the BMW PGA Championship in 2014, is looking to claim his second title in the event. Meanwhile, 10 of the European Ryder Cup team members will join him at Wentworth, as the tournament serves as a crucial step in preparing the team for the defense of its title at Bethpage Black on September 26.

Interestingly, Sepp Straka is the only European Ryder Cup player absent from the BMW PGA Championship. The Celebrity Pro-Am, a significant event at Wentworth, will also feature a number of notable celebrities, including Sir Andy Murray and Gareth Bale.

Just days before the BMW PGA Championship, McIlroy claimed his second Irish Open title in a thrilling playoff against Joakim Lagergren on Monday. This victory is sure to boost his confidence heading into this week's tournament.

As the BMW PGA Championship gets underway, golf fans are eagerly awaiting an exciting display of skill and competition at Wentworth. With a strong field of players and celebrities, and the added pressure of helping the European Ryder Cup team prepare for its title defense, this year's tournament promises to be one not to miss.