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2mo ago

PGA-LIV Merger Talks Face Delays as Criticism of Jay Monahan Intensifies

Commissioner Monahan emphasizes progress in unifying golf but faces backlash over prolonged negotiations and ties to Saudi PIF leadership.

Golf - LIV Golf - TGL Tournament - Riyadh Golf Club, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - February 6, 2025 Crushers GC's Bryson DeChambeau in action REUTERS/Hamad I Mohammed/File Photo
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - MARCH 05: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland waits to play a shot with his caddie Harry Diamond during the pro-am as a preview to the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard 2025 at Arnold Palmer Bay Hill Golf Course on March 05, 2025 in Orlando, Florida.
Jay Monahan, Commissioner of the PGA Tour speaks to the media in a press conference prior to THE PLAYERS Championship on THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass on March 07, 2023 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

Overview

  • Jay Monahan, PGA Tour Commissioner, stated that no formal meetings with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) are currently scheduled, delaying the potential merger timeline until possibly before 2029.
  • Monahan has faced significant criticism from fans and the golf community for his evolving stance on Saudi Arabia and his deepening ties with PIF Governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan.
  • Rory McIlroy, previously a staunch advocate for reunification, has shifted his position, now suggesting the PGA Tour may not need a deal with PIF, citing the Tour’s growing momentum and success.
  • Jordan Spieth’s consistent stance against the necessity of a merger has gained validation, as McIlroy’s recent comments align with his earlier arguments about the PGA Tour’s independence.
  • The launch of TGL, a tech-driven golf league co-founded by Tiger Woods and McIlroy, has bolstered the PGA Tour’s position with strong viewership and appeal to a younger audience, further influencing merger dynamics.