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Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy explains why he played golf with Donald Trump

USA TODAY Sports

Rory McIlroy has responded to criticism of his round of golf with President Donald Trump.

Donald Trump talks to Rory McIlroy during the final round of the World Golf Championships-Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral Blue Monster Course  on March 6, 2016.

McIlroy, a four-time major winner, played Sunday with Trump and former baseball player Paul O'Neill at Trump International.

He posted a statement on Twitter clarifying his position on the round.

"This wasn't an endorsement nor a political statement of any kind," McIlroy wrote. "It was, quite simply, a round of golf. Golf was our common ground, nothing else. I've traveled all over the world and have been fortunate enough to befriend people from many different countries, beliefs and cultures. To be called a fascist and a bigot by some people because I spent some time in someone's company is just ridiculous."

McIlroy said he is expecting to play next week at the World Golf Championship event in Mexico after being sidelined since withdrawing from the Abu Dhabi Championship last month with a rib injury.

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