The unexpected merger announcement between LIV Golf, the PGA Tour, and the DP World Tour has sent shockwaves throughout the golfing community and beyond. After being fierce rivals since the inception of the Saudi-backed breakaway tour, this dramatic turn of events has caught many by surprise.
PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan expressed his excitement about the “transformational partnership” in a statement addressed to players. Under the newly merged, for-profit entity, Monahan will assume the role of CEO, while Yasir Al-Rumayyan will become the chairman. However, the name of the merged company has not been disclosed yet.
Prize money details have not been announced, but it is expected to be substantial, likely surpassing the amounts offered by both the PGA and LIV Tours. The press release mentioned that the Saudi Arabian state’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) will invest “billions” in the new for-profit company resulting from the merger. The specific formats to be played in future tournaments remain unknown, but the statement mentioned the inclusion of the “team golf concept,” suggesting that certain events may focus on this format. Alternatively, if the LIV and PGA Tours continue as separate entities, the team feature may be retained in the Saudi-started circuit.
Regarding banned players, they will have the opportunity to rejoin the tours, although the details of the reapplication process have not been confirmed yet. The joint statement from the three tours indicated that they would collaboratively establish a fair and objective procedure for players who wish to reapply for membership with the PGA Tour or the DP World Tour after the conclusion of the 2023 season. Therefore, players will likely remain with their respective tours for the remainder of the current year.
The status of the Ryder Cup and the involvement of players affected by the merger remain uncertain. However, if players are allowed to reapply for tours, it is reasonable to assume that they will also be reconsidered for selection in the Ryder Cup if they were previously ineligible.
The PGA Tour will hold a majority control position on the new board, but the exclusive funding will come from the PIF, and the new company will operate as a for-profit entity. While there has been talk of improving the sport for everyone, the reality is that money will inevitably play a significant role in business decisions.
In the immediate future, Jay Monahan is scheduled to travel to Toronto and hold a players-only meeting during the RBC Canadian Open at 9 pm BST. This meeting will likely provide further clarity and information about the merger and its implications.
