Rory McIlroy has been called out by PGA Tour star Kevin Kisner.

Rory McIlroy was challenged by Kevin Kisner for claiming "growing the game" rather than financial gain as his genuine reason for taking part in the DP World Tour India Championship this week.

McIlroy, presently sitting third in the Race to Dubai rankings, has advocated for the sport's expansion throughout his career and has emerged as a significant figure on the commercial side during recent upheaval.

He remained loyal to the PGA Tour and DP World Tour over LIV Golf - which now faces a possible collapse as players seek fresh opportunities - discussing LIV's demise this week during a presentation following his arrival in New Delhi.

He has maintained a longstanding opposition to LIV Golf owing to the chaos that followed its launch. The breakaway circuit enticed leading talent away from the PGA Tour, generating a profound divide amongst players and administrators.

The six-time major winner has subsequently redirected his attention towards establishing a superior work-life balance, voicing a commitment to devote additional time to his family and reduce his presence on the golf course. Yet, he's participating this week in India despite the PGA Tour season concluding in late August.

"I've always enjoyed playing a global schedule so I was excited to visit India for the first time last season to be part of the inaugural DP World India Championship," McIlroy remarked recently about the competition. Kisner challenged him, arguing that he has no genuine interest in developing the sport in India, reports the Mirror US.

Kisner reckons he's simply there for the money as McIlroy makes only his second appearance at the competition.

"That is such a dog- comment, but I guess for the right price, we could all say that comment," Kisner told the Fore Play podcast referring to McIlroy wanting to grow the game.

"He doesn't want to globally expand in India, he wants to get his $10 million bucks and go play in India."

Kisner highlighted the fact that McIlroy cannot use his driver at Delhi Golf Club, pointing out that it represents the Tour star's main advantage. On the PGA Tour, McIlroy sits second in driving distance with an average of 330.3 yards and 12th in club head speed at 123.85 mph.

"I know there's a pile of guys that got paid for that event," Kisner added. "How else would you get that event in India with eight billion people in the middle of the city? And Rory's not even hitting a driver this week. You think he wants to go play a tournament where he can't use his number one weapon? So give me a break."

McIlroy addressed the Bloomberg panel for almost half an hour, showcasing his swing, condemning LIV Golf, and showing openness to welcoming them back, stating, "I think a rising tide lifts all boats.

"They always seem to say the right things while they're over there," continued Kisner.

"As part of your appearance fee, here's your script for altruism, and you need to mention these four lines in whatever interview you do throughout the week. Which is totally fine, I'd do it too, and all of us on this podcast would.

"I just find it hilarious when you can pop up and play an event where McIlroy can't hit his driver, and all those guys show up, and nobody's like, 'alright, this is stupid', whenever they can go play the sickest course in the world, and none of them show up. It's just very odd to me."