Rory McIlroy spoke his mind about golf at the Rio Olympics today and it won’t make pleasant listening for those trying to promote the sport at the games.

The world number four was being interviewed in the build-up to this weekend’s British Open at Troon.

The four-time major winner had come in for criticism recently for his decision not to participate in this summer’s Games, which he said was a result of fears about the Zika virus.

When the subject came up at today’s press conference, he didn’t pull any punches.

”I don’t feel like I’ve let the game down at all,” he insisted. “I didn’t get into golf to try to grow the game, I tried to get into golf to win championships and win major championships.”

He continued: "I’m very happy with the decision I’ve made. I have no regrets about it.

”I’ll probably watch the Olympics, but I’m not sure golf will be one of the events I’ll watch.”

He was then asked what sports he would watch.

”I'll watch track and field, swimming, diving - you know, ones that matter.”

Ouch.

Naturally McIlroy’s comments have created a buzz online, with many agreeing with his views.

Fair play to Rory McIlroy for his honesty today in recognising the elephant in the room. The Olympics doesn't matter a toss to golfers. — Euan McLean (@Euanmc1) July 12, 2016

Others pointed out how damaging his comments could be to the chances of golf staying an Olympic sport.

Uncalled for, irresponsible, stupid comment by @McIlroyRory . Previous + comments on Olympics now look hypocritical https://t.co/p6rgl0cVvA — Rick Young (@YoungerGolf) July 12, 2016

Its really a sinking ship at this point. @McIlroyRory comments this morning have to be damaging in long term. https://t.co/T5RBqfGBbU — Aaron Bruce (@brewcee) July 12, 2016

Clear now that golf establishment's wish to grow game thru Olympics may have had support from Tiger generation but not the one that followed — Peter Robinson (@ByPeterRobinson) July 12, 2016

dumbest comment by a pro golfer in 2016. @McIlroyRory just crapped on a lot of work by a lot of people going back to 2009 — Rick Young (@YoungerGolf) July 12, 2016

What do you think?