– The DP World Tour’s flagship event in India is facing unexpected criticism, not for its course conditions or prize money, but for the quality of its player amenities. Global superstar Rory McIlroy has publicly raised serious concerns about the standard of meals provided to competitors, calling it an unacceptable health and performance issue.
The four-time major champion, known for his candid views on the sport’s governance, took aim at the player dining and catering services at the DSGMC Delhi Golf Club, suggesting it falls far short of the standards required for elite athletes.
“It’s a real disappointment, and frankly, a significant oversight,” McIlroy stated after his practice round. “We’re performing at the absolute limit of our physical capabilities. Proper nutrition isn’t a luxury; it’s fuel. What’s being provided here is, to be blunt, subpar for a tour of this level. When you’re competing in this heat and humidity, you need carefully prepared, high-quality food to recover and perform, and that’s just not what we’re seeing.”
While McIlroy did not specify the exact nature of the issues, sources within the player dining area indicated concerns ranging from a lack of variety and bland options to questions about food safety and hygiene. Several other players have reportedly echoed McIlroy’s sentiments privately.
“The food is a big talking point in the locker room,” said one European pro, who wished to remain anonymous. “You have to be so careful with what you eat when you travel, especially in a new environment. When the official catering doesn’t inspire confidence, players are forced to seek out their own meals, which is a risk and a logistical nightmare during a tournament. It’s a distraction we don’t need.”
The issue touches on a broader challenge for global golf tours: maintaining consistent standards for player welfare across vastly different countries and cultures. What is standard at events in Europe or the United States can be difficult to replicate elsewhere.
A spokesperson for the DP World Tour released a statement addressing the complaint: “We are aware of the feedback regarding the catering facilities at the DSGMC Delhi Golf Club. The well-being of our players is our top priority. We are working urgently with the tournament organizers and our own logistics team to address these concerns and make immediate improvements to the food and beverage offerings available to all competitors and staff.”
McIlroy emphasized that his criticism was not an indictment of the host country, but a call for the Tour to enforce a universal standard.
“This isn’t about India; it’s about the DP World Tour ensuring that every stop on the calendar, regardless of location, meets the baseline requirements for athlete care,” he explained. “We have nutritionists, physios, and a whole team around us to optimize performance. It all gets undermined if the most basic need—safe and effective nutrition—isn’t met. It’s a player health issue, first and foremost.”
With the tournament set to begin, the spotlight is now firmly on the organizers to rectify the situation quickly, as player satisfaction off the course is intrinsically linked to the quality of the spectacle on it.
