Why Rory McIlroy returned to Memphis for FedEx St. Jude Championship in 2026

Rory McIlroy, the back-to-back Masters champion, has returned to Memphis for the 2026 FedEx St. Jude Championship, which begins on August 13. McIlroy skipped the 2025 edition to rest ahead of the season's final two events, but cited competitive preparation as his reason for returning this year, entering the tournament ranked 12th in the FedExCup standings. The event's future is uncertain as the PGA Tour is set to undergo major changes in 2028, when the Memphis tournament will lose its premier status.