Rory McIlroy Stuns Fans by Turning Down Elon Musk’s $10 Million Tesla Deal: “Spend It on Something That Helps People”
In a jaw-dropping twist that has sent shockwaves through the worlds of golf and business, Rory McIlroy has publicly rejected a lucrative $10 million offer from billionaire Elon Musk to become Tesla’s Brand Ambassador for three years. The Northern Irish golf superstar didn’t mince words, delivering a pointed message to Musk: “Keep it and spend it on something that actually helps people!”
The saga began when Musk, the visionary behind Tesla and SpaceX, took to X to praise McIlroy’s bold and innovative golf style after sharing an article about his recent TGL match. Musk extended an unexpected invitation for McIlroy to represent Tesla, a move that promised to blend the golfer’s global fame with the electric vehicle giant’s cutting-edge image. Early reports speculated the deal could be worth millions, with McIlroy potentially promoting Tesla’s flagship models like the Cybertruck and Roadster.
However, McIlroy’s response was swift and unequivocal. Speaking to reporters after a practice round earlier today, the four-time major champion made his stance clear. “I appreciate Elon’s kind words about my game, but I’m not interested in a paycheck for something like this,” McIlroy said. “If he’s got $10 million to throw around, I’d rather see it go toward something meaningful—helping people who need it, not slapping my face on a car ad.”
The rejection has ignited a firestorm of reactions online, with fans and commentators divided. Some hailed McIlroy’s principled stand, applauding his focus on social impact over personal gain. “Rory just proved he’s not for sale—respect!” one X user wrote. Others, however, saw it as a missed opportunity to bridge golf and tech, with a Tesla enthusiast lamenting, “He could’ve done good *and* driven a Cybertruck. Why say no?”
McIlroy’s decision stands in stark contrast to his previous praise for Musk. In 2024, he had called the billionaire “the smartest guy in the world” while discussing Musk’s potential role in resolving golf’s PGA Tour-LIV Golf rift. Yet, it seems that admiration doesn’t extend to a business partnership—at least not on these terms.
For Musk, the rebuff is a rare public setback. Known for his unconventional and often successful pitches—whether launching rockets or tweeting memes—the Tesla CEO has yet to respond to McIlroy’s comments. Sources close to Musk suggest he may take the rejection in stride, with one insider noting, “Elon’s used to people saying no before they say yes. This won’t faze him.”
Meanwhile, McIlroy’s words have sparked speculation about what “helping people” might mean to him. The golfer has a history of philanthropy, notably through the Rory Foundation, which supports children’s charities worldwide. Could this be a hint at a larger call to action for Musk and other billionaires? Only time will tell if the Tesla titan takes McIlroy’s advice to heart.
For now, the golf world is buzzing with the fallout. McIlroy remains focused on his upcoming tournaments, but his bold stand has cemented his reputation as more than just a champion on the course—he’s a man unafraid to speak his mind, even to one of the world’s richest and most influential figures.
*This story is developing. Check back for Elon Musk’s response and further updates.*
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