If you're surprised by Rory McIlroy's decision not to play in this week's Memorial Tournament, you're not the only one. In fact, McIlroy's decision also came as a surprise to Jack Nicklaus, the 18-time major winner and the founder and host of the tournament.

Jack Nicklaus was surprised world No. 2 Rory McIlroy did not contact him about bypassing this year's Memorial, but won't throw him under the bus.

Rory McIlroy is not playing the Memorial for only the second time in his PGA Tour career. Tournament host Jack Nicklaus says McIlroy hasn't called to say why.

Rory McIlroy has drawn some criticism for not reaching out to Jack Nicklaus about not playing in the Memorial.

Jack Nicklaus praised Rory McIlroy's Masters win but noted mistakes, calling it a relief despite disappointment over the PGA Tour pro skipping the Memorial.

Rory McIlroy will return to action at this week's RBC Canadian Open and is expected to break his silence on a number of key issues in golf in his pre-tournament press conference

I like Rory too much. Hes a good kid. Hes played some great golf. Hes had a lot of things that have happened to him. Hes got to make his own call on things.

PGA Tour star Rory McIlroy has faced significant backlash this week after making a somewhat last-minute decision to withdraw from golf legend Jack Nicklaus' annual Memorial Tournament, which is currently heading into its final round on Sunday with many of the sport’s top players competing.

Rory McIlroy decided not to play the Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village last week, but the Masters champion is back in action in Toronto for the RBC Canadian Open