Jon Rahm captured his third consecutive LIV Golf season crown on Sunday while Chile's Joaquin Niemann took a wire-to-wire victory at LIV Golf New York for a record ninth series title. Niemann fired a two-under par 69 to finish 72 holes on 16-under 268 and defeat American Harold Varner III by three strokes at Trump National Bedminster in New Jersey.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/diego-maradona-hand-of-god-ball-auction-10-million-us-1786263632650">Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ ball expected to fetch $10 million at US auction</a>"The more they push me the better golfer I became from every experience," Niemann said."I was just hoping to be able to hit the shots I did and make the putts that I did coming down the stretch. I put the credit on myself."England's Lee Westwood and Scott Vincent of Zimbabwe shared third, both seven off the pace.Rahm finished tied for 41st after firing a closing 76 Sunday, but clinched the season trophy with an unassailable 219-point lead over Bryson DeChambeau going into the finale in two weeks at Indianapolis.Rahm, whose 2025 season crown came despite no victories, won this year at Hong Kong in March and Mexico City in April. He also had runner-up efforts in Riyadh, Adelaide, South Africa and Andalucia."It has been a great year," Rahm said. "A little sour taste in my mouth because of how badly I played this week but it has been something to be proud of."And after last year not getting a win and possibly having a question mark over the season-long race to win twice effectively and win it again, definitely feels good."Rahm was proud of his early season performances, with two wins, three seconds and a fifth in the first six tournaments of 2026."Proud of earlier in the season. I think to start off as well as I did with a few second-places and not getting in the way," Rahm said."Then going to Hong Kong and getting it done when I needed to, having a lead and then losing it and then birdieing four in a row in the last few holes was probably the most proud moment."Niemann, who opened with a bogey at the first hole but birdied the par-three seventh, sank a 56-foot birdie putt at the 13th hole and a long eagle putt at the 15th to seize a four-stroke edge on Varner.A bogey at 17 only trimmed his victory margin.Crushers, with DeChambeau as captain, won the LIV Golf New York team title on six-over par, defeating Legion XIII and Torque by two strokes.

Rahm finished tied for 41st after firing a closing 76 Sunday, but clinched the season trophy with an unassailable 219-point lead over Bryson DeChambeau going into the finale in two weeks at Indianapolis.

Jon Rahm captured his third consecutive LIV Golf season crown on Sunday while Chile's Joaquin Niemann took a wire-to-wire victory at LIV Golf New York for a record ninth series title. Niemann fired a two-under par 69 to finish 72 holes on 16-under 268 and defeat American Harold Varner III by three strokes at Trump National Bedminster in New Jersey. Also Read - Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ ball expected to fetch $10 million at US auction "The more they push me the better golfer I became from every experience," Niemann said. "I was just hoping to be able to hit the shots I did and make the putts that I did coming down the stretch. I put the credit on myself." England's Lee Westwood and Scott Vincent of Zimbabwe shared third, both seven off the pace. Rahm finished tied for 41st after firing a closing 76 Sunday, but clinched the season trophy with an unassailable 219-point lead over Bryson DeChambeau going into the finale in two weeks at Indianapolis. Rahm, whose 2025 season crown came despite no victories, won this year at Hong Kong in March and Mexico City in April. He also had runner-up efforts in Riyadh, Adelaide, South Africa and Andalucia. "It has been a great year," Rahm said. "A little sour taste in my mouth because of how badly I played this week but it has been something to be proud of. "And after last year not getting a win and possibly having a question mark over the season-long race to win twice effectively and win it again, definitely feels good." Rahm was proud of his early season performances, with two wins, three seconds and a fifth in the first six tournaments of 2026. "Proud of earlier in the season. I think to start off as well as I did with a few second-places and not getting in the way," Rahm said. "Then going to Hong Kong and getting it done when I needed to, having a lead and then losing it and then birdieing four in a row in the last few holes was probably the most proud moment." Niemann, who opened with a bogey at the first hole but birdied the par-three seventh, sank a 56-foot birdie putt at the 13th hole and a long eagle putt at the 15th to seize a four-stroke edge on Varner. A bogey at 17 only trimmed his victory margin. Crushers, with DeChambeau as captain, won the LIV Golf New York team title on six-over par, defeating Legion XIII and Torque by two strokes.

Rahm finished tied for 41st after firing a closing 76 Sunday, but clinched the season trophy with an unassailable 219-point lead over Bryson DeChambeau going into the finale in two weeks at Indianapolis.

Jon Rahm wins third consecutive LIV Golf season crown

Bryson DeChambeau, a two-time major winner, is also a physic major from Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas which he attended from 2012-15. He is currently contemplating what to do with his career if LIV Golf, rival PGA Tour which is he a part of, fails: "content creation on YouTube or professional golf." Recently, DeChambeau appeared on a podcast hosted by Katie Miller - the wife of White House senior adviser Stephen Miller. During the podcast, the golfer talked about a lot of things, including his relationship with US President Donald Trump but the most interesting thing was his take on NASA's moon landing.<h2>What DeChambeau thinks about Moon landing?</h2>The golfer was asked if Alan Shepherd, who walked on moon during Apollo 14 mission in 1971, did play golf on the lunar surface. DeChambeau, a man of science, replied: "Oh, I don’t, here we, conspiracy theory, I don’t know. Look, Elon [Musk] says we’ve definitely gone there. So I tend to go that route, because he’s the man that knows quite a bit about all that. Artemis just went around the moon. So I do believe if we spent a lot of our resources like they say we did, I think we did. I don’t think the footage is real. But I think we did go to the moon. I don’t know about the footage. It’s quite, it’s quite wild." Have a look at the footage below:<h2>What else DeChambeau opined on?</h2>The two-time major winner also said that the believes in existence of extra-terrestrial or inter-dimensional beings. "I do think that there are interdimensional beings out there, for sure," said the physics major said. "I do believe in UAPs [Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena]. UAPs, UFOs, I think they’re more than just aliens from another world. Maybe aliens from another world. But I think there’s more. There’s a lot more to that story," he added.On his relationship with US president Trump, DeChambeau said: "He gives me a lot of crap about pickles, actually."

The US golfer has questioned the authenticity of NASA's moon landing footage but said he believes in ‘inter-dimensional’ beings on Katie Miller podcast.

Bryson DeChambeau, a two-time major winner, is also a physic major from Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas which he attended from 2012-15. He is currently contemplating what to do with his career if LIV Golf, rival PGA Tour which is he a part of, fails: "content creation on YouTube or professional golf." Recently, DeChambeau appeared on a podcast hosted by Katie Miller - the wife of White House senior adviser Stephen Miller. During the podcast, the golfer talked about a lot of things, including his relationship with US President Donald Trump but the most interesting thing was his take on NASA's moon landing. What DeChambeau thinks about Moon landing? The golfer was asked if Alan Shepherd, who walked on moon during Apollo 14 mission in 1971, did play golf on the lunar surface. DeChambeau, a man of science, replied: "Oh, I don’t, here we, conspiracy theory, I don’t know. Look, Elon [Musk] says we’ve definitely gone there. So I tend to go that route, because he’s the man that knows quite a bit about all that. Artemis just went around the moon. So I do believe if we spent a lot of our resources like they say we did, I think we did. I don’t think the footage is real. But I think we did go to the moon. I don’t know about the footage. It’s quite, it’s quite wild." Have a look at the footage below: What else DeChambeau opined on? The two-time major winner also said that the believes in existence of extra-terrestrial or inter-dimensional beings. "I do think that there are interdimensional beings out there, for sure," said the physics major said. "I do believe in UAPs [Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena]. UAPs, UFOs, I think they’re more than just aliens from another world. Maybe aliens from another world. But I think there’s more. There’s a lot more to that story," he added. On his relationship with US president Trump, DeChambeau said: "He gives me a lot of crap about pickles, actually."

The US golfer has questioned the authenticity of NASA's moon landing footage but said he believes in ‘inter-dimensional’ beings on Katie Miller podcast.

Bryson DeChambeau, two-time major winner and physics graduate, questions moon landing footage

World number two Rory McIlroy questions LIV Golf's ability to find new investors after Saudi backers pull out but said Friday the PGA Tour should be open to players wanting to return. The reigning Masters champion, a six-time major winner from Northern Ireland, admitted there will be some "bridges to cross" in any comebacks. McIlroy has long been a vocal LIV opponent and unhappy with PGA Tour players who jumped to $25 million events on the Saudi-backed series.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-pistons-hold-of-cavaliers-to-take-2-0-lead-in-conference-semis-1778207205965">NBA Playoffs: Pistons hold of Cavaliers to take 2-0 lead in conference semis</a>The Saudi Public Investment Fund, however, has announced it will stop funding LIV Golf at the end of the 2026 season, the rebel tour now seeking new investors to continue beyond a scheduled August finish."It doesn't mean that LIV is going to go away," McIlroy said of LIV's financial woes. "They're going to go and try and find alternative investment, whatever that may look like."But when one of the wealthiest sovereign wealth funds in the world thinks that you're too expensive for them, that sort of says something."The PGA Tour offered a temporary path back for some LIV players and five-time major winner Brooks Koepka took advantage to make a return.LIV's demise could send dozens of players in search of a PGA spot, including such major winners as Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau, who has indicated he wants to work more on his YouTube ventures."It's a question if they do want to come back," McIlroy said. "We've seen the quotes over the last few days and it seems like some of the guys -- again, it all depends on what happens to LIV."But if it is a scenario where they have the option to come back and play on the traditional tours, (PGA Tour chief executive) Brian Rolapp has said anything that makes this tour stronger, anything that makes the DP World Tour stronger, I think everyone should be open to that. That's just good business practice."I think there's going to be a lot of, sort of, bridges to cross to get there, just because, the guys over there are under contract and if they are able to keep it going and get a schedule together next year, it seems like those guys are still going to play the majority of their golf on LIV in whatever form it takes."<h2>‘That says something’</h2>McIlroy is fine with players who don't seek a PGA comeback."At the start, I was probably too judgmental with the guys that went because I was seeing it from my point of view and maybe not seeing it from other points of view," McIlroy said."But again, I'm not going to judge anyone for not wanting to play on the PGA Tour."Does that mean that they go play DP World Tour maybe? If that's a pathway, that would make the DP World Tour stronger, and I would be delighted with that, because that's my home tour, at the end of the day."But if you want to be the most competitive golfer you can be, this is the place to be. And if you don't want to play here, I think that says something about you."

The Saudi Public Investment Fund, however, has announced it will stop funding LIV Golf at the end of the 2026 season, the rebel tour now seeking new investors to continue beyond a scheduled August finish.

World number two Rory McIlroy questions LIV Golf's ability to find new investors after Saudi backers pull out but said Friday the PGA Tour should be open to players wanting to return. The reigning Masters champion, a six-time major winner from Northern Ireland, admitted there will be some "bridges to cross" in any comebacks. McIlroy has long been a vocal LIV opponent and unhappy with PGA Tour players who jumped to $25 million events on the Saudi-backed series. Also Read - NBA Playoffs: Pistons hold of Cavaliers to take 2-0 lead in conference semis The Saudi Public Investment Fund, however, has announced it will stop funding LIV Golf at the end of the 2026 season, the rebel tour now seeking new investors to continue beyond a scheduled August finish. "It doesn't mean that LIV is going to go away," McIlroy said of LIV's financial woes. "They're going to go and try and find alternative investment, whatever that may look like. "But when one of the wealthiest sovereign wealth funds in the world thinks that you're too expensive for them, that sort of says something." The PGA Tour offered a temporary path back for some LIV players and five-time major winner Brooks Koepka took advantage to make a return. LIV's demise could send dozens of players in search of a PGA spot, including such major winners as Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau, who has indicated he wants to work more on his YouTube ventures. "It's a question if they do want to come back," McIlroy said. "We've seen the quotes over the last few days and it seems like some of the guys -- again, it all depends on what happens to LIV. "But if it is a scenario where they have the option to come back and play on the traditional tours, (PGA Tour chief executive) Brian Rolapp has said anything that makes this tour stronger, anything that makes the DP World Tour stronger, I think everyone should be open to that. That's just good business practice. "I think there's going to be a lot of, sort of, bridges to cross to get there, just because, the guys over there are under contract and if they are able to keep it going and get a schedule together next year, it seems like those guys are still going to play the majority of their golf on LIV in whatever form it takes." ‘That says something’ McIlroy is fine with players who don't seek a PGA comeback. "At the start, I was probably too judgmental with the guys that went because I was seeing it from my point of view and maybe not seeing it from other points of view," McIlroy said. "But again, I'm not going to judge anyone for not wanting to play on the PGA Tour. "Does that mean that they go play DP World Tour maybe? If that's a pathway, that would make the DP World Tour stronger, and I would be delighted with that, because that's my home tour, at the end of the day. "But if you want to be the most competitive golfer you can be, this is the place to be. And if you don't want to play here, I think that says something about you."

The Saudi Public Investment Fund, however, has announced it will stop funding LIV Golf at the end of the 2026 season, the rebel tour now seeking new investors to continue beyond a scheduled August finish.

Rory McIlroy wants PGA Tour to open door for LIV players amid financial woes

LIV Golf's scheduled June event in Louisiana has been postponed, according to multiple reports on Monday, as the Saudi-backed series seeks new investment. The Athletic and WDSU television in New Orleans reported that the New Orleans tournament, a new event set for June 25-28 at City Park's Bayou Oaks, will not be played as planned. LIV Golf chief executive officer Scott O'Neil and Susan Bourgeois, secretary of Louisiana economic development, spoke days after Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) indicated it sought to drop financing for LIV, now in its fifth season, The Athletic reported.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liv-begins-to-die-players-future-in-limbo-after-saudi-pif-withdraws-funding-beyond-2026-1776403567544">LIV begins to die: Players' future in limbo after Saudi PIF withdraws funding beyond 2026</a>Bourgeois and O'Neil spoke last Friday and agreed to postpone the tournament due to LIV's business model changes, with an official announcement expected on Tuesday.The Louisiana tournament remained on LIV Golf's website schedule for June on Monday evening.The Athletic reported the sides hoped to talk about a re-envisioned event this fall, although LIV's final event for the 2026 campaign is set for August.WDSU reported the state of Louisiana would postpone the event until LIV could find other funding sources and restructure.City Park, owned by the state of Louisiana, received $2 million in state funding for upgrades to host the event and the state also set aside $3 million as a hosting fee to lure the event with hopes for $70 million in economic impact for the area, the television station reported.The state would be refunded $1 million already paid to LIV and provide no additional money, WDSU reported.The Athletic said $1.2 million would be returned to the state with the renovation money treated as an acceptable improvement to a state asset.The move raises concerns about what could be the final months for LIV as O'Neil seeks money after this year's potential PIF funding stoppage.LIV arrived in 2022 and lured top PGA Tour talent with big contracts, Spain's Jon Rahm winning the past two season crowns.But the series has struggled for global attention and some players, such as Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed, have jumped back to the PGA Tour or are in the process of doing so.LIV Golf's next scheduled event is at Trump National Golf Club in suburban Washington on May 7-10.Other LIV stops are set for May in South Korea, June in Spain and July in England before the season closes with US stops in August at Trump National Bedminster in New Jersey, Indianapolis and the team championship in Michigan on August 27-30.

LIV Golf June event in New Orleans being postponed amid funding crunch, say reports

LIV Golf's scheduled June event in Louisiana has been postponed, according to multiple reports on Monday, as the Saudi-backed series seeks new investment. The Athletic and WDSU television in New Orleans reported that the New Orleans tournament, a new event set for June 25-28 at City Park's Bayou Oaks, will not be played as planned. LIV Golf chief executive officer Scott O'Neil and Susan Bourgeois, secretary of Louisiana economic development, spoke days after Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) indicated it sought to drop financing for LIV, now in its fifth season, The Athletic reported. Also Read - LIV begins to die: Players' future in limbo after Saudi PIF withdraws funding beyond 2026 Bourgeois and O'Neil spoke last Friday and agreed to postpone the tournament due to LIV's business model changes, with an official announcement expected on Tuesday. The Louisiana tournament remained on LIV Golf's website schedule for June on Monday evening. The Athletic reported the sides hoped to talk about a re-envisioned event this fall, although LIV's final event for the 2026 campaign is set for August. WDSU reported the state of Louisiana would postpone the event until LIV could find other funding sources and restructure. City Park, owned by the state of Louisiana, received $2 million in state funding for upgrades to host the event and the state also set aside $3 million as a hosting fee to lure the event with hopes for $70 million in economic impact for the area, the television station reported. The state would be refunded $1 million already paid to LIV and provide no additional money, WDSU reported. The Athletic said $1.2 million would be returned to the state with the renovation money treated as an acceptable improvement to a state asset. The move raises concerns about what could be the final months for LIV as O'Neil seeks money after this year's potential PIF funding stoppage. LIV arrived in 2022 and lured top PGA Tour talent with big contracts, Spain's Jon Rahm winning the past two season crowns. But the series has struggled for global attention and some players, such as Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed, have jumped back to the PGA Tour or are in the process of doing so. LIV Golf's next scheduled event is at Trump National Golf Club in suburban Washington on May 7-10. Other LIV stops are set for May in South Korea, June in Spain and July in England before the season closes with US stops in August at Trump National Bedminster in New Jersey, Indianapolis and the team championship in Michigan on August 27-30.

LIV Golf chief executive officer Scott O'Neil and Susan Bourgeois, secretary of Louisiana economic development, spoke days after Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) indicated it sought to drop financing for LIV, now in its fifth season.

The PGA Tour is exploring pathways for players to return from LIV Golf, even as the embattled breakaway circuit scrambles to rebrand and retain its stars ahead of the rumored withdrawal of Saudi funding. The golfing world was shaken last week by widespread reports that LIV only has support from Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund guaranteed until the end of the season, after which the high-spending tour would face a major financial deficit if it continues. That has prompted speculation that the entire circuit could soon collapse, leaving marquee players like Bryson DeChambeau plotting their futures.Asked this week if the PGA tour had plans to welcome back defectors from rival LIV like DeChambeau, as it already has with five-time major winner Brooks Koepka, CEO Brian Rolapp said the PGA was "thinking about it.""Brooks came back onto the tour because he made a phone call and said, 'Look, I'm out of my contract. I'm ready to come back,'" Rolapp told the Pat McAfee Show on Monday."So we're thinking about it. We'll react when we have an opportunity to react.He added: "I'm interested in whatever makes the PGA Tour better."Whether DeChambeau would want to return to the PGA Tour is not clear, particularly given the punitive financial terms already imposed on the likes of Koepka.DeChambeau's wildly popular YouTube channel regularly draws over two million views per video, and he could feasibly choose to only play golf's four major tournaments.Even if LIV Golf continues next season, DeChambeau's contract will be up, and The Athletic on Monday reported that the two-time major winner is demanding "up to $500 million" to re-sign.LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil, who last week told staff that the tour would continue "full throttle" this season, said the circuit would "probably" have to raise money going forward.<h2>'OKGC'</h2>One option he has frequently touted is selling equity stakes in LIV's 13 teams.On Tuesday, the tour announced it was rebranding the Smash GC team -- formerly captained by Koepka -- as "OKGC", inspired by its new, Oklahoma City-native captain Talor Gooch.It has previously rebranded other teams to help attract fans, sponsors and potential investors from specific international markets, including "Korean Golf Club", and the all-South African "Southern Guards".The "OKGC" rebranding is "a significant step in LIV Golf's strategy to connect its teams to home markets, creating stronger identities and deeper relationships with fans, partners and communities," said a tour statement."As the league continues to grow globally, OKGC highlights the growing impact of localized, domestic team identities within the LIV Golf franchise model," said the statement.Still, selling team stakes alone would not begin to plug the estimated $5 billion that Saudi backers have spent on the four-year-old LIV Golf tour to date.In January, Bloomberg reported that the league was targeting valuations up to $300 million per team. There is currently no public valuation of what the teams are worth.O'Neil has also spoken about other strategies like partnering with established national opens, and redoubling LIV's focus on markets where it has drawn record crowds to events, such as Australia and South Africa.And in the United States, the tour still retains the support of at least one powerful fan.The venue for LIV's next tournament?The US president's own Trump National Golf Club, just outside Washington DC.

The golfing world was shaken last week by widespread reports that LIV only has support from Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund guaranteed until the end of the season, after which the high-spending tour would face a major financial deficit if it continues. 

The PGA Tour is exploring pathways for players to return from LIV Golf, even as the embattled breakaway circuit scrambles to rebrand and retain its stars ahead of the rumored withdrawal of Saudi funding. The golfing world was shaken last week by widespread reports that LIV only has support from Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund guaranteed until the end of the season, after which the high-spending tour would face a major financial deficit if it continues. That has prompted speculation that the entire circuit could soon collapse, leaving marquee players like Bryson DeChambeau plotting their futures. Asked this week if the PGA tour had plans to welcome back defectors from rival LIV like DeChambeau, as it already has with five-time major winner Brooks Koepka, CEO Brian Rolapp said the PGA was "thinking about it." "Brooks came back onto the tour because he made a phone call and said, 'Look, I'm out of my contract. I'm ready to come back,'" Rolapp told the Pat McAfee Show on Monday. "So we're thinking about it. We'll react when we have an opportunity to react. He added: "I'm interested in whatever makes the PGA Tour better." Whether DeChambeau would want to return to the PGA Tour is not clear, particularly given the punitive financial terms already imposed on the likes of Koepka. DeChambeau's wildly popular YouTube channel regularly draws over two million views per video, and he could feasibly choose to only play golf's four major tournaments. Even if LIV Golf continues next season, DeChambeau's contract will be up, and The Athletic on Monday reported that the two-time major winner is demanding "up to $500 million" to re-sign. LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil, who last week told staff that the tour would continue "full throttle" this season, said the circuit would "probably" have to raise money going forward. 'OKGC' One option he has frequently touted is selling equity stakes in LIV's 13 teams. On Tuesday, the tour announced it was rebranding the Smash GC team -- formerly captained by Koepka -- as "OKGC", inspired by its new, Oklahoma City-native captain Talor Gooch. It has previously rebranded other teams to help attract fans, sponsors and potential investors from specific international markets, including "Korean Golf Club", and the all-South African "Southern Guards". The "OKGC" rebranding is "a significant step in LIV Golf's strategy to connect its teams to home markets, creating stronger identities and deeper relationships with fans, partners and communities," said a tour statement. "As the league continues to grow globally, OKGC highlights the growing impact of localized, domestic team identities within the LIV Golf franchise model," said the statement. Still, selling team stakes alone would not begin to plug the estimated $5 billion that Saudi backers have spent on the four-year-old LIV Golf tour to date. In January, Bloomberg reported that the league was targeting valuations up to $300 million per team. There is currently no public valuation of what the teams are worth. O'Neil has also spoken about other strategies like partnering with established national opens, and redoubling LIV's focus on markets where it has drawn record crowds to events, such as Australia and South Africa. And in the United States, the tour still retains the support of at least one powerful fan. The venue for LIV's next tournament? The US president's own Trump National Golf Club, just outside Washington DC.

The golfing world was shaken last week by widespread reports that LIV only has support from Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund guaranteed until the end of the season, after which the high-spending tour would face a major financial deficit if it continues.&nbsp;

PGA Tour exploring way back for golfers amid LIV uncertainty

As Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) has pulled its support from the LIV Golf beyond 2026, the future of the players is now in limbo. Most of the players had left PGA Tour - the powerhouse of golf - to be in Saudi's rebel tour which now is facing uncertain future. Started in 2021, Saudi PIF has spent nearly $5 billion on LIV and now seems to say enough. The decision was taken after the LIV executives met Wednesday (Apr 8) last week in New York during the Master week. Without the PIF backing, LIV will definitely find it hard to continue with each event carrying a purse of $30 million.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-world-cup-2026-iran-has-to-come-says-fifa-chief-gianni-infantino-about-its-participation-1776323752750">Football WC 2026 | 'Iran has to come,' says FIFA chief about its participation</a><h2>Why PIF is withdrawing support for LIV?</h2>Started as Saudi's ambitious plan to disrupt the sports world, LIV saw many top players like Bryson DeChambeau, John Rahm, Brooks Koepka and others. The reason for PIF withdrawing the backing could have stemmed from ongoing trouble in West Asia which has seen the US and Iran engaging in hostilities. In response to the US's aggression, Iran launched attacked on various US bases in the region including Saudi Arabia. Saudi may be also be looking at investments in sports with potential of some return rather than just funding the sports blindly.<h2>What about the players involved with LIV?</h2>The latest development has left the future of players involved in limbo. LIV CEO Scott O'Neil's e-mail in the aftermath also did little to calm the nerves as it didn't mention 2027.'While the media landscape is often filled with speculation, our reality is defined by the work we do on the grass. We are heading into the heart of our 2026 schedule with the full energy of an organisation that is bigger, louder and more influential than ever before," read a part of the e-mail as reported by the Guardian.As for the players, Koepka has returned to PGA with Patrick Reed expected to complete the journey soon. The path back does not seem smooth for DeChambeau and Rahm who now have lost bargaining chips with the rebel tour's future uncertain. The same goes for Phil Mickelson who has not been on good terms with PGA when her joined LIV.As a result of LIV fallout, DP World Tour, earlier called European Tour, could be the biggest gainer as it has showed interest since long back to be associated with the LIV players.

Started in 2021, Saudi PIF has spent nearly $5 billion on LIV and now seems to say enough. The decision to withdraw funding was taken Wednesday (Apr 8) last week in New York during the Master week. Without the PIF backing, LIV will definitely find it hard to continue with each event carrying a purse of $30 million.

As Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) has pulled its support from the LIV Golf beyond 2026, the future of the players is now in limbo. Most of the players had left PGA Tour - the powerhouse of golf - to be in Saudi's rebel tour which now is facing uncertain future. Started in 2021, Saudi PIF has spent nearly $5 billion on LIV and now seems to say enough. The decision was taken after the LIV executives met Wednesday (Apr 8) last week in New York during the Master week. Without the PIF backing, LIV will definitely find it hard to continue with each event carrying a purse of $30 million. Also Read - Football WC 2026 | 'Iran has to come,' says FIFA chief about its participation Why PIF is withdrawing support for LIV? Started as Saudi's ambitious plan to disrupt the sports world, LIV saw many top players like Bryson DeChambeau, John Rahm, Brooks Koepka and others. The reason for PIF withdrawing the backing could have stemmed from ongoing trouble in West Asia which has seen the US and Iran engaging in hostilities. In response to the US's aggression, Iran launched attacked on various US bases in the region including Saudi Arabia. Saudi may be also be looking at investments in sports with potential of some return rather than just funding the sports blindly. What about the players involved with LIV? The latest development has left the future of players involved in limbo. LIV CEO Scott O'Neil's e-mail in the aftermath also did little to calm the nerves as it didn't mention 2027. 'While the media landscape is often filled with speculation, our reality is defined by the work we do on the grass. We are heading into the heart of our 2026 schedule with the full energy of an organisation that is bigger, louder and more influential than ever before," read a part of the e-mail as reported by the Guardian. As for the players, Koepka has returned to PGA with Patrick Reed expected to complete the journey soon. The path back does not seem smooth for DeChambeau and Rahm who now have lost bargaining chips with the rebel tour's future uncertain. The same goes for Phil Mickelson who has not been on good terms with PGA when her joined LIV. As a result of LIV fallout, DP World Tour, earlier called European Tour, could be the biggest gainer as it has showed interest since long back to be associated with the LIV players.

Started in 2021, Saudi PIF has spent nearly $5 billion on LIV and now seems to say enough. The decision to withdraw funding was taken Wednesday (Apr 8) last week in New York during the Master week. Without the PIF backing, LIV will definitely find it hard to continue with each event carrying a purse of $30 million.

LIV begins to die: Players' future in limbo after Saudi PIF withdraws funding beyond 2026

The LIV Golf season is moving ahead without disruption, with its Mexico event set to begin later today. Despite ongoing debates around the tour, organisers are keeping the schedule intact, ensuring fans get uninterrupted action. Players are ready to tee off in what promises to be another high-energy event, as LIV Golf continues to build momentum on the global stage.


LIV Golf Season Stays On Track: Mexico Event Set To Tee Off As Scheduled 

LIV Golf on Wednesday moved to reassure players and staff that it remains fully funded, as reports circulated that the breakaway tour is on the verge of collapse due to the possible withdrawal of Saudi Arabian financing. The Saudi-backed tour has bitterly divided the world of golf since its 2022 launch, when several of the sport's biggest names were lured to defect from the traditional PGA and DP World tours with huge-money deals. Rumors have mounted in recent days that LIV Golf's deep-pocketed backers in Riyadh have cooled on the extravagantly expensive project, which has reportedly cost them over $5 billion so far.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chess-javokhir-sindarov-20-wins-fide-candidates-with-one-game-to-spare-to-set-up-world-championship-clash-vs-gukesh-1776235557825">Candidates | Sindarov, 20, wins to set up world title clash vs Gukesh</a>And multiple outlets including the Financial Times, New York Times and Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that the near-$1-trillion Saudi sovereign wealth fund's withdrawal was imminent, all citing anonymous sources."I want to be crystal clear: Our season continues exactly as planned, uninterrupted and at full throttle," LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil wrote in an email to staff, including players, obtained by AFP.O'Neil's missive came as players assembled in Mexico City ahead of this week's LIV event, where tour organizers were presenting a business-as-usual front.The tour posted first-round tee times as usual, and even poked fun at the rumors on social media."Slow news day? We are ON," said one post, alongside an image with the words "BREAKING NEWS. TUNE IN TOMORROW" and the Mexico City tournament's starting times."LIV Golf funding and operations are continuing as planned," sources familiar with the tour's workings told AFP, pointing to a doubling in tour revenue from 2024 to 2025, and recent record attendances in Australia and South Africa.But Britain's Telegraph newspaper reported that LIV Golf executives had been called into a meeting in New York to discuss the potential fallout from a withdrawal of Saudi funding.The speculation comes as the Saudi fund on Wednesday unveiled a new five-year strategy that will reorganize its investments -- an announcement that came against the backdrop of war in the Middle East.The Gulf region has been hit hard by Iranian barrages on infrastructure, including airports, energy installations and ports following the US and Israeli attack on Iran in late February.Even before the war, Saudi Arabia's economic reforms were coming under pressure, with persistently low oil prices in recent years shrinking government revenues.Cracks have appeared in LIV Golf's player roster, as five-time major winner Brooks Koepka and former Masters champion Patrick Reed have recently ditched LIV for returns to the PGA Tour.<h2>'We are pioneers'</h2>If the LIV Golf tour were to cease operations, it is not clear how it would affect its remaining players.LIV star Sergio Garcia told a press conference in Mexico City that players "haven't heard anything" since the start of the year, when wealth fund's leader Yasir al-Rumayyan told golfers "that he's behind us, that they have a long-term project."In his letter, O'Neil did not directly dispute the rumors of a Saudi withdrawal, but said that "the life of a startup movement is often defined by these moments of pressure.""We signed up for this because we believe in disrupting the status quo," wrote the executive."We are pioneers, and while the road isn't always smooth, the destination is worth every mile," he added.

Rumors have mounted in recent days that LIV Golf's deep-pocketed backers in Riyadh have cooled on the extravagantly expensive project, which has reportedly cost them over $5 billion so far.

LIV Golf on Wednesday moved to reassure players and staff that it remains fully funded, as reports circulated that the breakaway tour is on the verge of collapse due to the possible withdrawal of Saudi Arabian financing. The Saudi-backed tour has bitterly divided the world of golf since its 2022 launch, when several of the sport's biggest names were lured to defect from the traditional PGA and DP World tours with huge-money deals. Rumors have mounted in recent days that LIV Golf's deep-pocketed backers in Riyadh have cooled on the extravagantly expensive project, which has reportedly cost them over $5 billion so far. Also Read - Candidates | Sindarov, 20, wins to set up world title clash vs Gukesh And multiple outlets including the Financial Times, New York Times and Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that the near-$1-trillion Saudi sovereign wealth fund's withdrawal was imminent, all citing anonymous sources. "I want to be crystal clear: Our season continues exactly as planned, uninterrupted and at full throttle," LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil wrote in an email to staff, including players, obtained by AFP. O'Neil's missive came as players assembled in Mexico City ahead of this week's LIV event, where tour organizers were presenting a business-as-usual front. The tour posted first-round tee times as usual, and even poked fun at the rumors on social media. "Slow news day? We are ON," said one post, alongside an image with the words "BREAKING NEWS. TUNE IN TOMORROW" and the Mexico City tournament's starting times. "LIV Golf funding and operations are continuing as planned," sources familiar with the tour's workings told AFP, pointing to a doubling in tour revenue from 2024 to 2025, and recent record attendances in Australia and South Africa. But Britain's Telegraph newspaper reported that LIV Golf executives had been called into a meeting in New York to discuss the potential fallout from a withdrawal of Saudi funding. The speculation comes as the Saudi fund on Wednesday unveiled a new five-year strategy that will reorganize its investments -- an announcement that came against the backdrop of war in the Middle East. The Gulf region has been hit hard by Iranian barrages on infrastructure, including airports, energy installations and ports following the US and Israeli attack on Iran in late February. Even before the war, Saudi Arabia's economic reforms were coming under pressure, with persistently low oil prices in recent years shrinking government revenues. Cracks have appeared in LIV Golf's player roster, as five-time major winner Brooks Koepka and former Masters champion Patrick Reed have recently ditched LIV for returns to the PGA Tour. 'We are pioneers' If the LIV Golf tour were to cease operations, it is not clear how it would affect its remaining players. LIV star Sergio Garcia told a press conference in Mexico City that players "haven't heard anything" since the start of the year, when wealth fund's leader Yasir al-Rumayyan told golfers "that he's behind us, that they have a long-term project." In his letter, O'Neil did not directly dispute the rumors of a Saudi withdrawal, but said that "the life of a startup movement is often defined by these moments of pressure." "We signed up for this because we believe in disrupting the status quo," wrote the executive. "We are pioneers, and while the road isn't always smooth, the destination is worth every mile," he added.

Rumors have mounted in recent days that LIV Golf's deep-pocketed backers in Riyadh have cooled on the extravagantly expensive project, which has reportedly cost them over $5 billion so far.

LIV Golf reassures players against rumours of Saudi funding withdrawal

Brooks Koepka, a five-time major winner who left the PGA Tour for LIV Golf in 2022 but quit the Saudi-backed series last month, has applied for PGA reinstatement, ESPN and Golf Channel reported Friday.&nbsp;The 35-year-old American, a nine-time PGA Tour champion and five-time LIV winner, departed LIV with a year remaining on his contract, but it was unclear when he might be allowed to return to the PGA Tour, according to the reports.&nbsp;ESPN reported that the PGA Tour will begin a reinstatement and disciplinary process that includes input from players on the board of directors.&nbsp;Koepka, a two-time US Open champion and three-time PGA Championship winner, has not competed in a PGA Tour event since the Valspar Championship in March 2022.&nbsp;After jumping to LIV Golf, Koepka became the first active LIV golfer to win a major title when he captured the 2023 PGA at Oak Hill, which has made him eligible to compete in all four majors this year.&nbsp;Koepka won the 2018 US Open at Shinnecock, where this year's US Open will be contested in June.&nbsp;The PGA Tour ban on Koepka did not keep him from playing for the United States in the 2023 Ryder Cup in Italy.&nbsp;LIV Golf chief executive Scott O'Neil said in December that Koepka and LIV "mutually agreed" to his departure.&nbsp;Koepka won LIV titles in 2022 at Jeddah, 2023 in Orlando and Jeddah and 2024 at Singapore and Greenbrier.&nbsp;Since leaving the PGA Tour, Koepka has not been critical of the tour and was not among players who filed a lawsuit against the tour over its ban of defectors to LIV from its tour events.&nbsp;"Brooks Koepka is a highly accomplished professional and we wish him and his family continued success," the PGA Tour said in a statement when the Koepka-LIV split was announced.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Another LIV star, two-time US Open winner Bryson DeChambeau, is not signed with LIV Golf beyond the 2026 season.&nbsp;DeChambeau won the 2020 US Open and became the second active LIV player to win a major when he captured the 2024 US Open at Pinehurst.&nbsp;DeChambeau has won nine times of the PGA Tour and three times in LIV Golf, including last year's South Korea event.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Rory McIlroy, who completed a career Grand Slam by winning last year's Masters, spoke on the subject of players returning to the PGA Tour from LIV in the "Stick to Football" podcast.&nbsp;"They've made the money, but they've paid their consequence in terms of the reputation and some of the things they've lost by going over there,” McIlroy said of PGA defectors to LIV.&nbsp;"If it made the overall tour stronger to have Bryson DeChambeau back and whoever else, I would be OK with it. But again, it's not just me and I recognize that not everyone is in my position. It would be up to the collective group of PGA Tour members to make that decision."&nbsp;Asked about the issue, two-time major winner Xander Schauffele said, "It's going to be hard to make everybody happy, I can answer that."&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Brooks Koepka, a two-time US Open champion and three-time PGA Championship winner, has not competed in a PGA Tour event since the Valspar Championship in March 2022.

Brooks Koepka, a five-time major winner who left the PGA Tour for LIV Golf in 2022 but quit the Saudi-backed series last month, has applied for PGA reinstatement, ESPN and Golf Channel reported Friday. The 35-year-old American, a nine-time PGA Tour champion and five-time LIV winner, departed LIV with a year remaining on his contract, but it was unclear when he might be allowed to return to the PGA Tour, according to the reports. ESPN reported that the PGA Tour will begin a reinstatement and disciplinary process that includes input from players on the board of directors. Koepka, a two-time US Open champion and three-time PGA Championship winner, has not competed in a PGA Tour event since the Valspar Championship in March 2022. After jumping to LIV Golf, Koepka became the first active LIV golfer to win a major title when he captured the 2023 PGA at Oak Hill, which has made him eligible to compete in all four majors this year. Koepka won the 2018 US Open at Shinnecock, where this year's US Open will be contested in June. The PGA Tour ban on Koepka did not keep him from playing for the United States in the 2023 Ryder Cup in Italy. LIV Golf chief executive Scott O'Neil said in December that Koepka and LIV "mutually agreed" to his departure. Koepka won LIV titles in 2022 at Jeddah, 2023 in Orlando and Jeddah and 2024 at Singapore and Greenbrier. Since leaving the PGA Tour, Koepka has not been critical of the tour and was not among players who filed a lawsuit against the tour over its ban of defectors to LIV from its tour events. "Brooks Koepka is a highly accomplished professional and we wish him and his family continued success," the PGA Tour said in a statement when the Koepka-LIV split was announced. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Another LIV star, two-time US Open winner Bryson DeChambeau, is not signed with LIV Golf beyond the 2026 season. DeChambeau won the 2020 US Open and became the second active LIV player to win a major when he captured the 2024 US Open at Pinehurst. DeChambeau has won nine times of the PGA Tour and three times in LIV Golf, including last year's South Korea event. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Rory McIlroy, who completed a career Grand Slam by winning last year's Masters, spoke on the subject of players returning to the PGA Tour from LIV in the "Stick to Football" podcast. "They've made the money, but they've paid their consequence in terms of the reputation and some of the things they've lost by going over there,” McIlroy said of PGA defectors to LIV. "If it made the overall tour stronger to have Bryson DeChambeau back and whoever else, I would be OK with it. But again, it's not just me and I recognize that not everyone is in my position. It would be up to the collective group of PGA Tour members to make that decision." Asked about the issue, two-time major winner Xander Schauffele said, "It's going to be hard to make everybody happy, I can answer that." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Brooks Koepka, a two-time US Open champion and three-time PGA Championship winner, has not competed in a PGA Tour event since the Valspar Championship in March 2022.

Brooks Koepka applies for PGA Tour reinstatement, days after leaving LIV Golf - Report

Five-time major winner Brooks Koepka has left LIV Golf for family reasons, the Saudi-backed circuit announced on Tuesday.&nbsp;Koepka, who was one of the highest profile players to join LIV when the renegade tour launched in 2022, could now be in line for a return to the PGA Tour, according to US reports.&nbsp;"We have amicably and mutually agreed that Brooks Koepka will no longer compete in the LIV Golf League, following the 2025 season," LIV Golf chief executive Scott O'Neil said in a statement.&nbsp;"Brooks is prioritizing the needs of his family and staying closer to home. We appreciate the significant impact he has had on the game and wish him continued success, both on and off the course."&nbsp;Koepka's decision comes after his wife, Jena Sims, revealed in October she had suffered a miscarriage 16 weeks into pregnancy.&nbsp;His representatives said the 35-year-old American, who won back-to-back US Opens in 2017 and 2018, had decided to spend more time with his family.&nbsp;"Family has always guided Brooks's decisions, and he feels this is the right moment to spend more time at home," Koepka's representatives said in a statement.&nbsp;"Brooks will continue to be a huge supporter of LIV Golf and wishes the league and its players continued success."&nbsp;Under current rules, LIV Golf players must serve a one-year suspension before being allowed to return to the PGA Tour.&nbsp;The PGA Tour was non-committal Tuesday about a possible timeline for Koepka's return to the tour.&nbsp;"Brooks Koepka is a highly accomplished professional, and we wish him and his family continued success," it said in a statement to ESPN.&nbsp;"The PGA Tour continues to offer the best professional golfers the most competitive, challenging and lucrative environment in which to pursue greatness."&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Brooks Koepka, who was one of the highest profile players to join LIV when the renegade tour launched in 2022, could now be in line for a return to the PGA Tour, according to US reports.

Five-time major winner Brooks Koepka has left LIV Golf for family reasons, the Saudi-backed circuit announced on Tuesday. Koepka, who was one of the highest profile players to join LIV when the renegade tour launched in 2022, could now be in line for a return to the PGA Tour, according to US reports. "We have amicably and mutually agreed that Brooks Koepka will no longer compete in the LIV Golf League, following the 2025 season," LIV Golf chief executive Scott O'Neil said in a statement. "Brooks is prioritizing the needs of his family and staying closer to home. We appreciate the significant impact he has had on the game and wish him continued success, both on and off the course." Koepka's decision comes after his wife, Jena Sims, revealed in October she had suffered a miscarriage 16 weeks into pregnancy. His representatives said the 35-year-old American, who won back-to-back US Opens in 2017 and 2018, had decided to spend more time with his family. "Family has always guided Brooks's decisions, and he feels this is the right moment to spend more time at home," Koepka's representatives said in a statement. "Brooks will continue to be a huge supporter of LIV Golf and wishes the league and its players continued success." Under current rules, LIV Golf players must serve a one-year suspension before being allowed to return to the PGA Tour. The PGA Tour was non-committal Tuesday about a possible timeline for Koepka's return to the tour. "Brooks Koepka is a highly accomplished professional, and we wish him and his family continued success," it said in a statement to ESPN. "The PGA Tour continues to offer the best professional golfers the most competitive, challenging and lucrative environment in which to pursue greatness." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Brooks Koepka, who was one of the highest profile players to join LIV when the renegade tour launched in 2022, could now be in line for a return to the PGA Tour, according to US reports.

Five-time major winner Brooks Koepka officially leaves LIV Golf

Bryson DeChambeau said in Hong Kong on Wednesday that he was staying with LIV Golf, shooting down rumours he was unhappy on the Saudi-backed circuit and was looking for a way back to the PGA Tour.
Rumours had been swirling online over the past few days that the US Open champion was seeking to leave LIV after his proposal for a $280 million contract renewal was rebuffed.
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Asked by AFP if there was any truth in the rumours ahead of this week's LIV Hong Kong tournament, two-time major winner DeChambeau replied: "No, I'm very excited about the future of LIV Golf.&nbsp;
"I'm very excited to be the captain of the Crushers and continue our legacy that we're starting to create."
The 31-year-old American, whose current deal with LIV runs until 2026, has a huge social media and YouTube following.
As a LIV Golf team captain he has a 25 percent equity stake in his Crushers squad, which also features Anirban Lahiri, Paul Casey and Charles Howell III.
DeChambeau recently bagged a huge sponsorship deal for his team to wear Reebok kit and unveiled a dream to use the millions he earns with LIV to spread Crushers-branded courses and golf academies all over the globe.
"My goal is to create this lasting legacy where we impact millions and millions of golfers' lives around the world," he said in the southern Chinese city.&nbsp;
"That should tell you everything you should know."
DeChambeau will tee up on Friday with his Crushers looking to defend the team title they won a year ago at the historic Fanling club, which recently celebrated its 135th anniversary.
Mexico's Abraham Ancer defends his individual title from 12 months ago, while Patrick Reed plays in the event as Hong Kong Open champion.
The American former Masters champion shot the second-ever 59 on the Asian Tour on his way to lifting the trophy in November on the par-70 championship course.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The 31-year-old American Bryson DeChambeau, whose current deal with LIV Golf runs until 2026, has a huge social media and YouTube following. Sports

Bryson DeChambeau said in Hong Kong on Wednesday that he was staying with LIV Golf, shooting down rumours he was unhappy on the Saudi-backed circuit and was looking for a way back to the PGA Tour. Rumours had been swirling online over the past few days that the US Open champion was seeking to leave LIV after his proposal for a $280 million contract renewal was rebuffed. Also Read: Exclusive | Phoebe Litchfield: Making waves in WPL, one shot at a time Asked by AFP if there was any truth in the rumours ahead of this week's LIV Hong Kong tournament, two-time major winner DeChambeau replied: "No, I'm very excited about the future of LIV Golf. "I'm very excited to be the captain of the Crushers and continue our legacy that we're starting to create." The 31-year-old American, whose current deal with LIV runs until 2026, has a huge social media and YouTube following. As a LIV Golf team captain he has a 25 percent equity stake in his Crushers squad, which also features Anirban Lahiri, Paul Casey and Charles Howell III. DeChambeau recently bagged a huge sponsorship deal for his team to wear Reebok kit and unveiled a dream to use the millions he earns with LIV to spread Crushers-branded courses and golf academies all over the globe. "My goal is to create this lasting legacy where we impact millions and millions of golfers' lives around the world," he said in the southern Chinese city. "That should tell you everything you should know." DeChambeau will tee up on Friday with his Crushers looking to defend the team title they won a year ago at the historic Fanling club, which recently celebrated its 135th anniversary. Mexico's Abraham Ancer defends his individual title from 12 months ago, while Patrick Reed plays in the event as Hong Kong Open champion. The American former Masters champion shot the second-ever 59 on the Asian Tour on his way to lifting the trophy in November on the par-70 championship course. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

LIV Golf star Bryson DeChambeau shuts down PGA Tour return rumours

In an unsurprising turn of events, the British tabloid report of a finalized merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf may have been premature. The Sun reported Saturday that the long-awaited merger between the rival golf circuits was complete and, per the headline, "Golf's civil war OVER." But on Tuesday, Front Office Sports cited industry sources in reporting that the tabloid had jumped the gun. Several details remain to be ironed out, including the major issue of navigating antitrust concerns in the United States.

There is "heavy internal pressure" to finalize the merger before the end of 2024 in the interest of making future scheduling easier, Front Office Sports reported. The PGA Tour has already released its 2025 schedule, and LIV has put out four tournament dates for 2025 so far.

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The shock merger between the PGA Tour and LIV was announced in early June 2023, with a self-imposed Dec. 31, 2023, deadline to finalize the "framework agreement." That deadline came and went, and PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan continues to meet and play golf with Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan as the 18-month mark approaches.

The Sun's tantalizing report claimed that PIF would receive an 11 percent share in the PGA Tour; that LIV's 14 annual team events would be brought under the PGA umbrella; and that Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy "played key roles in the peace talks."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

In an unsurprising turn of events, the British tabloid report of a finalized merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf may have been premature. The Sun reported Saturday that the long-awaited merger between the rival golf circuits was complete and, per the headline, "Golf's civil war OVER.

In an unsurprising turn of events, the British tabloid report of a finalized merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf may have been premature. The Sun reported Saturday that the long-awaited merger between the rival golf circuits was complete and, per the headline, "Golf's civil war OVER." But on Tuesday, Front Office Sports cited industry sources in reporting that the tabloid had jumped the gun. Several details remain to be ironed out, including the major issue of navigating antitrust concerns in the United States. There is "heavy internal pressure" to finalize the merger before the end of 2024 in the interest of making future scheduling easier, Front Office Sports reported. The PGA Tour has already released its 2025 schedule, and LIV has put out four tournament dates for 2025 so far. Also read: Paris Olympics gold medallist boxer Imane Khelif confirmed as man in leaked medical reports The shock merger between the PGA Tour and LIV was announced in early June 2023, with a self-imposed Dec. 31, 2023, deadline to finalize the "framework agreement." That deadline came and went, and PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan continues to meet and play golf with Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan as the 18-month mark approaches. The Sun's tantalizing report claimed that PIF would receive an 11 percent share in the PGA Tour; that LIV's 14 annual team events would be brought under the PGA umbrella; and that Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy "played key roles in the peace talks." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Golf: PGA Tour-LIV merger rumors premature - Report

Cam Smith's Ripper won the LIV Golf Team Championship on Sunday, the all-Australian squad defeating Dustin Johnson's all-American 4Aces and Iron Heads by three strokes. Smith, the 2022 British Open champion, birdied three of the last six holes to fire a four-under par 68 at Maridoe Golf Club in suburban Dallas. That gave Ripper a team total of 11-under par 277 with 4Aces and Kevin Na's Iron Heads sharing second on 280 and Legion XIII, playing without captain Jon Rahm, fourth on 282.

The Aussies denied 4Aces a second team title in three seasons and doomed a worst-to-first bid for Iron Heads, who finished last in the LIV season team standings.

Justin Herbert birdied four of his last five holes to shoot 69 for Ripper with Marc Leishman and Matt Jones both on 70.

"It's so good ... not only great golfers but they're better people and I think that's what being a Ripper is all about," Smith said shortly after his teammates doused him in champagne on the 18th green. "To have those guys out there today to lean on, there was something telling me that we were going to be all right."

The stroke-play final saw the scores of all four players counting to the team total after a shotgun start.

Ripper, 4Aces and Iron Heads were tied for the lead at 8-under as the captains final group, which began at the first hole, reached the 16th tee. Jones birdied the par-5 second to lift Ripper one ahead at 9-under while Na made bogey at 16 and Scott Vincent closed with a birdie at the third to keep the Iron Heads one adrift.

Harold Varner III closed with a long birdie putt at the first to lift 4Aces level with Ripper but Herbert answered on the same hole moments later with an eight-foot birdie to put Ripper back on top at 10-under.

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Smith birdied the par-5 17th to give the Aussies a two-stroke lead and when Johnson found the water off the 18th tee, the outcome was all-but settled, Smith finishing off the triumph with a par minutes later.

Johnson, the 2016 US Open and 2020 Masters champion, closed with a bogey to shoot 69. The 40-year-old Johnson, who won a LIV individual title at Las Vegas in February, shared his team's low score with birdie-free Patrick Reed, the 2018 Masters winner.

Iron Heads, the 13th and last seeds, ousted defending champion Crushers in a Saturday semi-final. They were led by Na and Japan's Jinichiro Kozuma on 69.

Legion XIII, usually led by season individual LIV champion Rahm, was without the two-time major winner from Spain after he withdrew Saturday with flu symptoms.

Saudi-backed LIV's third campaign closes with merger negotiations ongoing between the PGA Tour and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF). LIV has announced four events to start the 2025 season, including Riyadh and Adelaide in February plus Hong Kong and Singapore in March.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Cam Smith's Ripper won the LIV Golf Team Championship on Sunday, the all-Australian squad defeating Dustin Johnson's all-American 4Aces and Iron Heads by three strokes.

Cam Smith's Ripper won the LIV Golf Team Championship on Sunday, the all-Australian squad defeating Dustin Johnson's all-American 4Aces and Iron Heads by three strokes. Smith, the 2022 British Open champion, birdied three of the last six holes to fire a four-under par 68 at Maridoe Golf Club in suburban Dallas. That gave Ripper a team total of 11-under par 277 with 4Aces and Kevin Na's Iron Heads sharing second on 280 and Legion XIII, playing without captain Jon Rahm, fourth on 282. The Aussies denied 4Aces a second team title in three seasons and doomed a worst-to-first bid for Iron Heads, who finished last in the LIV season team standings. Justin Herbert birdied four of his last five holes to shoot 69 for Ripper with Marc Leishman and Matt Jones both on 70. "It's so good ... not only great golfers but they're better people and I think that's what being a Ripper is all about," Smith said shortly after his teammates doused him in champagne on the 18th green. "To have those guys out there today to lean on, there was something telling me that we were going to be all right." The stroke-play final saw the scores of all four players counting to the team total after a shotgun start. Ripper, 4Aces and Iron Heads were tied for the lead at 8-under as the captains final group, which began at the first hole, reached the 16th tee. Jones birdied the par-5 second to lift Ripper one ahead at 9-under while Na made bogey at 16 and Scott Vincent closed with a birdie at the third to keep the Iron Heads one adrift. Harold Varner III closed with a long birdie putt at the first to lift 4Aces level with Ripper but Herbert answered on the same hole moments later with an eight-foot birdie to put Ripper back on top at 10-under. Also read: Best performance in Chess Olympiad history: Legendary Viswanathan Anand on India's HISTORIC double gold Smith birdied the par-5 17th to give the Aussies a two-stroke lead and when Johnson found the water off the 18th tee, the outcome was all-but settled, Smith finishing off the triumph with a par minutes later. Johnson, the 2016 US Open and 2020 Masters champion, closed with a bogey to shoot 69. The 40-year-old Johnson, who won a LIV individual title at Las Vegas in February, shared his team's low score with birdie-free Patrick Reed, the 2018 Masters winner. Iron Heads, the 13th and last seeds, ousted defending champion Crushers in a Saturday semi-final. They were led by Na and Japan's Jinichiro Kozuma on 69. Legion XIII, usually led by season individual LIV champion Rahm, was without the two-time major winner from Spain after he withdrew Saturday with flu symptoms. Saudi-backed LIV's third campaign closes with merger negotiations ongoing between the PGA Tour and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF). LIV has announced four events to start the 2025 season, including Riyadh and Adelaide in February plus Hong Kong and Singapore in March. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Golf: All-Australian Ripper squad clinches LIV Golf team crown

Reigning US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau said Friday a decision to allow LIV Golf players into the US Ryder Cup team and PGA Championship will spark a return to more events by talent from the upstart series.

The PGA of America announced its decision on Thursday, saying it wanted to ensure the best US talent for the Ryder Cup squad and top fields for the PGA.

Since Saudi-backed LIV Golf launched in 2022 and lured away several big name PGA Tour stars, the US tour has banned LIV players from its events, making it difficult for LIV players to earn world ranking points and qualify for majors.

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The majors have been the place where stars from both tours meet, with the events issuing special invitations at times to ensure their fields include the game's best.

The PGA of America decision ensures LIV eligibility for major spots at the PGA Championship and on US Ryder Cup squads. LIV's Brooks Koepka played for the Americans last year after he won the PGA Championship.

"To see that they came out and made that statement is great reassurance that us players will eventually have a pathway, whether it be exemptions or whatnot, to play in the Ryder Cup and other tournaments as such," DeChambeau said Friday at the LIV Golf Team Championship in Dallas.

DeChambeau captains the Crushers, the top-seeded defending LIV team champions.

DeChambeau, the 2020 and 2024 US Open champion, expects more opportunities to come for LIV golfers.

"I think it's just the start," he said. "I think it's the beginning to opening up the ecosystem back to a place where players can play across numerous tours and support different charities and tournaments alike in different countries and regions.

"I think it's a great first step."

Talks continue between PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) about a merger deal, but stumbling blocks remain over how to reinstate LIV players and impose punishments on PGA defectors.

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Reigning US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau said Friday a decision to allow LIV Golf players into the US Ryder Cup team and PGA Championship will spark a return to more events by talent from the upstart series.

Reigning US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau said Friday a decision to allow LIV Golf players into the US Ryder Cup team and PGA Championship will spark a return to more events by talent from the upstart series. The PGA of America announced its decision on Thursday, saying it wanted to ensure the best US talent for the Ryder Cup squad and top fields for the PGA. Since Saudi-backed LIV Golf launched in 2022 and lured away several big name PGA Tour stars, the US tour has banned LIV players from its events, making it difficult for LIV players to earn world ranking points and qualify for majors. Also Read: Joel Embiid agrees to NBA contract extension with Philadelphia 76ers The majors have been the place where stars from both tours meet, with the events issuing special invitations at times to ensure their fields include the game's best. The PGA of America decision ensures LIV eligibility for major spots at the PGA Championship and on US Ryder Cup squads. LIV's Brooks Koepka played for the Americans last year after he won the PGA Championship. "To see that they came out and made that statement is great reassurance that us players will eventually have a pathway, whether it be exemptions or whatnot, to play in the Ryder Cup and other tournaments as such," DeChambeau said Friday at the LIV Golf Team Championship in Dallas. DeChambeau captains the Crushers, the top-seeded defending LIV team champions. DeChambeau, the 2020 and 2024 US Open champion, expects more opportunities to come for LIV golfers. "I think it's just the start," he said. "I think it's the beginning to opening up the ecosystem back to a place where players can play across numerous tours and support different charities and tournaments alike in different countries and regions. "I think it's a great first step." Talks continue between PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) about a merger deal, but stumbling blocks remain over how to reinstate LIV players and impose punishments on PGA defectors. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Great first step,' says Bryson DeChambeau on LIV players' inclusion in US Ryder Cup and PGA Championship

LIV Golf players will be eligible for the Ryder Cup and the PGA Championship, the PGA of America announced Thursday in a move made to ensure access to top talent. Since the early days of the upstart Saudi-backed series, the US PGA Tour has banned LIV players from competing in its events, making it hard for LIV players to earn world ranking points and qualify for majors.

But PGA and LIV players have faced each other at major tournaments in recent years, with LIV's Brooks Koepka winning last year's PGA Championship for his fifth major crown and receiving a captain's pick place on last year's US Ryder Cup team.

"To ensure the PGA Championship will continue to deliver the strongest field in golf and that the US Ryder Cup team will continue to have access to the best American players, the PGA of America board has determined that LIV Golf players will be eligible for both," the PGA of America statement said.

"Going forward, all LIV Golf players are eligible for the PGA Championship and any American player who qualifies for the Ryder Cup on points or is added to the US team as a captain's pick is eligible to compete."

The PGA of America decision solidifies spots in events although several LIV players had been granted special invitations to certain majors in past seasons and Koepka was welcomed into the Ryder Cup squad. Some LIV players have been able to compete in majors thanks largely to wins before LIV began, many competing as past winners of specific majors.

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The move shows tensions could be easing in golf's civil war even as talks continue between Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, LIV's backers, and the PGA Tour about a merger agreement, negotiations that have stretched well beyond their original deadline of the end of last year.

Talks were conducted last week in New York but among the sticking points remains how to punish former PGA players who defected to LIV should they return and what LIV's future might become.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

LIV Golf players will be eligible for the Ryder Cup and the PGA Championship, the PGA of America announced Thursday in a move made to ensure access to top talent.

LIV Golf players will be eligible for the Ryder Cup and the PGA Championship, the PGA of America announced Thursday in a move made to ensure access to top talent. Since the early days of the upstart Saudi-backed series, the US PGA Tour has banned LIV players from competing in its events, making it hard for LIV players to earn world ranking points and qualify for majors. But PGA and LIV players have faced each other at major tournaments in recent years, with LIV's Brooks Koepka winning last year's PGA Championship for his fifth major crown and receiving a captain's pick place on last year's US Ryder Cup team. "To ensure the PGA Championship will continue to deliver the strongest field in golf and that the US Ryder Cup team will continue to have access to the best American players, the PGA of America board has determined that LIV Golf players will be eligible for both," the PGA of America statement said. "Going forward, all LIV Golf players are eligible for the PGA Championship and any American player who qualifies for the Ryder Cup on points or is added to the US team as a captain's pick is eligible to compete." The PGA of America decision solidifies spots in events although several LIV players had been granted special invitations to certain majors in past seasons and Koepka was welcomed into the Ryder Cup squad. Some LIV players have been able to compete in majors thanks largely to wins before LIV began, many competing as past winners of specific majors. Also read: UNBELIEVABLE! LA Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani makes MLB history with first 50-homer, 50-steal season - Watch The move shows tensions could be easing in golf's civil war even as talks continue between Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, LIV's backers, and the PGA Tour about a merger agreement, negotiations that have stretched well beyond their original deadline of the end of last year. Talks were conducted last week in New York but among the sticking points remains how to punish former PGA players who defected to LIV should they return and what LIV's future might become. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Golf: LIV golfers to be eligible for US Ryder Cup team, PGA Championship

Spain's Jon Rahm wants to play three European golf events before the end of the year to maintain his Ryder Cup eligibility, but said Wednesday he won't pay fines levied by the DP World Tour over his LIV golf participation. The two-time major winner, who joined LIV Golf last December, is facing a deadline to pay the fines imposed by the DP World Tour on golfers who failed to obtain releases to play in the Saudi-backed league events that conflict with tour events.

As he prepared for the LIV Golf tournament in Chicago this week, Rahm said he hoped to play two events in his homeland -- the Spanish Open and the Andalucia Masters -- and in the Dunhill Links Championship.

But he acknowledged that he wasn't sure if he would be allowed to tee it up. "We entered a long time ago,” Rahm said. “Whether they let me play or not is a different thing. I’m not a big fan of the fines. I think I’ve been outspoken about that. "I don't intend to pay the fines and we keep trying to have a discussion with them about how we can make this happen," he added.

"I've said many times, I don't go to the Spanish Open for the glory or anything else. I think it's my duty to Spanish golf to be there and I also want to play in Sotogrande."

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There is an apparent avenue for Rahm to play, if he appeals the sanctions. LIV Golf's Tyrrell Hatton competed at the British Masters after appealing his sanctions, with the penalties to be resolved at a later date.

One person likely watching the situation closely is Luke Donald, who will captain Europe in next year's Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in New York.

Rahm was one of Europe's star performers in their victory over the United States last year in Rome in the most recent edition of the biennial match play showdown.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Spain's Jon Rahm wants to play three European golf events before the end of the year to maintain his Ryder Cup eligibility, but said Wednesday he won't pay fines levied by the DP World Tour over his LIV golf participation.

Spain's Jon Rahm wants to play three European golf events before the end of the year to maintain his Ryder Cup eligibility, but said Wednesday he won't pay fines levied by the DP World Tour over his LIV golf participation. The two-time major winner, who joined LIV Golf last December, is facing a deadline to pay the fines imposed by the DP World Tour on golfers who failed to obtain releases to play in the Saudi-backed league events that conflict with tour events. As he prepared for the LIV Golf tournament in Chicago this week, Rahm said he hoped to play two events in his homeland -- the Spanish Open and the Andalucia Masters -- and in the Dunhill Links Championship. But he acknowledged that he wasn't sure if he would be allowed to tee it up. "We entered a long time ago,” Rahm said. “Whether they let me play or not is a different thing. I’m not a big fan of the fines. I think I’ve been outspoken about that. "I don't intend to pay the fines and we keep trying to have a discussion with them about how we can make this happen," he added. "I've said many times, I don't go to the Spanish Open for the glory or anything else. I think it's my duty to Spanish golf to be there and I also want to play in Sotogrande." Also read: Carlos Alcaraz-starrer Spain, 'epic' USA off the mark in Davis Cup There is an apparent avenue for Rahm to play, if he appeals the sanctions. LIV Golf's Tyrrell Hatton competed at the British Masters after appealing his sanctions, with the penalties to be resolved at a later date. One person likely watching the situation closely is Luke Donald, who will captain Europe in next year's Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in New York. Rahm was one of Europe's star performers in their victory over the United States last year in Rome in the most recent edition of the biennial match play showdown. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Golf: Spain's Jon Rahm eyes DP World Tour events despite LIV-related sanctions

Negotiations between the PGA Tour and LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;backers the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) are progressing, Tiger Woods said on Tuesday, but with much work still ahead that could keep him from taking on the job of U.S. Ryder Cup captain. A director on the PGA Tour policy board that is trying to hammer out an agreement with the PIF, Woods has had a very full plate while preparing for this week's PGA Championship at the Valhalla&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Club.

The 48-year-old, who also sits on the PGA Tour Enterprises board, has had to juggle several new business ventures along with the possibility of leading the U.S. against Europe when they host the Ryder Cup next year at Bethpage Black.

"We're still talking," said Woods, about the Ryder Cup. "There's nothing that has been confirmed yet, we're still working on what that might look like. "Also whether or not I have the time to do it, I need to feel that I can give the amount of time that it deserves.

"We're working on negotiations with PIF. It's ongoing; it's fluid; it changes day-to-day. We're making steps and it may not be giant steps, but we're making steps."

Negotiations appear to be reaching a crucial moment with Jimmy Dunne, one of the key architects of the initial framework agreement between the PGA Tour and PIF, announcing on Monday he was stepping away from the policy board citing no meaningful progress was being made towards a deal.

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Last week, it was reported that one of the&nbsp;golf's leading voices Rory McIlroy had his return to the policy board blocked by a small group of players, including business partner Woods, who dismissed the idea of any friction as nothing more than a difference of opinion.

"I think that we see it differently," said the 15-times major winner. "But collectively as a whole we want to see whatever's best for all the players, the fans, and the state of&nbsp;golf. "How we get there, that's to be determined, but the fact that we're in this together and in this fight together to make&nbsp;golf&nbsp;better is what it's all about."

What all&nbsp;golfers seem to agree on is that a deal is needed or the situation risks further alienating fans, who want to see the world's best go head-to-head and not a civil war between LIV and the PGA Tour for control of the sport.

The feuding has resulted in a significant drop in viewership, raising red flags with broadcasters and PGA Tour headquarters.

"I don't like where it's going," said world number nine Max Homa. "It's got to be exhausting to be a casual&nbsp;golf&nbsp;fan at this point in time. "I don't know why you would want to hear about the business side of this game.

"So, yeah, it is troubling I hope at some point soon we can just get back to entertaining people and playing&nbsp;golf&nbsp;and seeing who shoots the lowest score and not talking about our Player Advisory Council. "We have a lot going on here, but hopefully at some point everybody can find the plot again."

Negotiations between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf backers the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) are progressing, Tiger Woods said on Tuesday, but with much work still ahead that could keep him from taking on the job of U.

Negotiations between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf backers the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) are progressing, Tiger Woods said on Tuesday, but with much work still ahead that could keep him from taking on the job of U.S. Ryder Cup captain. A director on the PGA Tour policy board that is trying to hammer out an agreement with the PIF, Woods has had a very full plate while preparing for this week's PGA Championship at the Valhalla Golf Club. The 48-year-old, who also sits on the PGA Tour Enterprises board, has had to juggle several new business ventures along with the possibility of leading the U.S. against Europe when they host the Ryder Cup next year at Bethpage Black. "We're still talking," said Woods, about the Ryder Cup. "There's nothing that has been confirmed yet, we're still working on what that might look like. "Also whether or not I have the time to do it, I need to feel that I can give the amount of time that it deserves. "We're working on negotiations with PIF. It's ongoing; it's fluid; it changes day-to-day. We're making steps and it may not be giant steps, but we're making steps." Negotiations appear to be reaching a crucial moment with Jimmy Dunne, one of the key architects of the initial framework agreement between the PGA Tour and PIF, announcing on Monday he was stepping away from the policy board citing no meaningful progress was being made towards a deal. Also read: WNBA 2024: Caitlin Clark score 20 points & 10 turnovers in debut, Fever loss to Sun Last week, it was reported that one of the golf's leading voices Rory McIlroy had his return to the policy board blocked by a small group of players, including business partner Woods, who dismissed the idea of any friction as nothing more than a difference of opinion. "I think that we see it differently," said the 15-times major winner. "But collectively as a whole we want to see whatever's best for all the players, the fans, and the state of golf. "How we get there, that's to be determined, but the fact that we're in this together and in this fight together to make golf better is what it's all about." What all golfers seem to agree on is that a deal is needed or the situation risks further alienating fans, who want to see the world's best go head-to-head and not a civil war between LIV and the PGA Tour for control of the sport. The feuding has resulted in a significant drop in viewership, raising red flags with broadcasters and PGA Tour headquarters. "I don't like where it's going," said world number nine Max Homa. "It's got to be exhausting to be a casual golf fan at this point in time. "I don't know why you would want to hear about the business side of this game. "So, yeah, it is troubling I hope at some point soon we can just get back to entertaining people and playing golf and seeing who shoots the lowest score and not talking about our Player Advisory Council. "We have a lot going on here, but hopefully at some point everybody can find the plot again."

Golf: PGA Tour and LIV Golf negotiations could keep Tiger Woods from Ryder Cup post

LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman said he is open-minded about the idea of moving to a traditional 72-hole format, though he added that the Saudi-backed circuit would need to evaluate the impact of adding an extra round to its 54-hole, no-cut events.

LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman said he is open-minded about the idea of moving to a traditional 72-hole format, though he added that the Saudi-backed circuit would need to evaluate the impact of adding an extra round to its 54-hole, no-cut events. Former Masters and U.S. Open champion Jon Rahm, who switched to the rebel circuit in December, has said he hoped LIV would move to a 72-hole format as it would help unite the tours. Norman said at a press conference on Wednesday ahead of LIV's event in Adelaide that they were open to the idea of changing the format but added that there was an "economic impact about putting television on for 72 holes". "It's a great conversation to have," he added. "We will continue to have that conversation going forward. But we sit back and say, what value do we get on putting on television on Thursday. How do we build out in the future? "There are things that we sit back and look at to see what is the most optimal solution to make this a better and better and better event, and 72 holes is discussed." Also read | Indian golfers Aditi Ashok, Diksha Dagar qualify for Paris Olympics 2024 Norman also dismissed a report that was published earlier this month saying LIV had made an $850 million offer to Rory McIlroy, saying: "This is just typical white noise that gets out there in the industry." Rahm, speaking alongside Norman at the press conference, said there was a "level of comfort" in playing 72 holes but that any decision to change the format had to make business sense. "At the end of the day, LIV is a business," he added. "If it doesn't fit the product, it doesn't fit the product." "I'm just a player. There's a lot of people that are a lot smarter than me that can figure it out and explain why they believe 54 holes may be better for them."

Golf: LIV CEO Greg Norman open to moving to 72-hole format

The split in the men's game between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia-backed LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;is unsustainable and will not benefit anyone in the long term, Rory McIlroy told&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Monthly on Tuesday. The four-time major champion said it was disheartening as a competitor to see the best&nbsp;golfers play in separate tours for most of the year.

"There needs to be a correction. I think what's happening is not sustainable right now, so something needs to happen to try to bring it all back together so we can all move forward so we don't have this division that's sort of ongoing," McIlroy said. "They keep going down those different paths and I just don't see how that benefits anyone in the long run... I think (it's) a shame for the overall game of&nbsp;golf."

Although negotiations on a merger between the PGA Tour and LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;are ongoing, McIlroy said it is still a distant prospect. "We're probably still quite a long ways from it, but I would hope that in the future that we can get there, unify the game and get the best players back together again," he added.

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Talks between the PGA Tour and LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;have dragged on and the PGA Tour secured a $3 billion investment deal with a consortium of U.S. sports team owners called Strategic Sports Group (SSG) in January.

The PGA Tour is prepared to go it alone with SSG if a deal with LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;cannot be done, tour commissioner Jay Monahan said last month. "Ultimately (LIV&nbsp;Golf) do have some of the best players in the world that are playing some really good&nbsp;golf," McIlroy said. McIlroy will next compete at the Texas Open from April 4.

The split in the men's game between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia-backed LIV Golf is unsustainable and will not benefit anyone in the long term, Rory McIlroy told Golf Monthly on Tuesday.

The split in the men's game between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia-backed LIV Golf is unsustainable and will not benefit anyone in the long term, Rory McIlroy told Golf Monthly on Tuesday. The four-time major champion said it was disheartening as a competitor to see the best golfers play in separate tours for most of the year. "There needs to be a correction. I think what's happening is not sustainable right now, so something needs to happen to try to bring it all back together so we can all move forward so we don't have this division that's sort of ongoing," McIlroy said. "They keep going down those different paths and I just don't see how that benefits anyone in the long run... I think (it's) a shame for the overall game of golf." Although negotiations on a merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf are ongoing, McIlroy said it is still a distant prospect. "We're probably still quite a long ways from it, but I would hope that in the future that we can get there, unify the game and get the best players back together again," he added. Also read: Adam Peaty books Paris 2024 ticket with fastest time in 100m breaststroke at British swimming championships Talks between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf have dragged on and the PGA Tour secured a $3 billion investment deal with a consortium of U.S. sports team owners called Strategic Sports Group (SSG) in January. The PGA Tour is prepared to go it alone with SSG if a deal with LIV Golf cannot be done, tour commissioner Jay Monahan said last month. "Ultimately (LIV Golf) do have some of the best players in the world that are playing some really good golf," McIlroy said. McIlroy will next compete at the Texas Open from April 4.

Division between PGA and LIV is unsustainable and a shame, claims Rory McIlroy

Anirban Lahiri returns to the Hero Indian Open for the first time in five years. The Liv golfer wants to mentor the next generation of Indian players. Lahiri told Wion Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo that he is also in talks to bring a Liv Golf event to India.

Anirban Lahiri returns to the Indian Open

LIV Golf has formally withdrawn its application to have players receive world ranking points from its tournaments, according to a letter sent to the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit's membership on Tuesday by commissioner and CEO Greg Norman.

LIV Golf first applied for recognition from the Official World Golf Ranking, which plays a key role in determining entry into golf's four majors, in July 2022 but was rejected last October. "We have made enormous efforts to fight for you and to ensure your accomplishments are recognized within the existing ranking system," Norman wrote in the letter, a copy of which was obtained by Reuters. "Unfortunately, the OWGR has shown little willingness to productively work with us."

In unanimously rejecting LIV Golf's application last October, the OWGR said the circuit's 54-hole, no-cut events for 48 players was an issue but that it was&nbsp;one&nbsp;capable of being managed through an "appropriate mathematical&nbsp;formula".

Norman said the rankings were structured to penalize anyone&nbsp;who has not played regularly on an "Eligible Tour" with the field ratings disproportionately rewarding play on the PGA Tour.

He also called for an independent ranking system that recognizes how the game is "expanding and modernizing" and that he will continue doing all he can to ensure LIV Golf players were represented at the majors.

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"Golf fans deserve to see the best players in the world play in the best tournaments. That has always been our goal," said Norman. "We continue to seek meaningful communication and relationship with each of the majors to ensure that LIV golfers are fairly represented and golf fans around the world have opportunities to see the best competition possible."

While golf's four majors have allowed qualified LIV players to compete, those who earned exemptions into the blue-riband events due to past results could&nbsp;one&nbsp;day be left out as they are not earning world ranking points.

There are currently four LIV players inside the top 50 in the world rankings: Masters champion Jon Rahm (3), Tyrrell Hatton (17), Brooks Koepka (30) and Cam Smith (50). LIV's Joaquin Niemann accepted a special invitation last month to compete in the Masters after a solid run of form that included victories at the DP World Tour's Australian Open in December and LIV Golf's season opener at Mayakoba last month.

LIV Golf's season resumes this week at Hong Kong Golf Club.

LIV Golf has formally withdrawn its application to have players receive world ranking points from its tournaments, according to a letter sent to the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit's membership on Tuesday by commissioner and CEO Greg Norman.

LIV Golf has formally withdrawn its application to have players receive world ranking points from its tournaments, according to a letter sent to the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit's membership on Tuesday by commissioner and CEO Greg Norman. LIV Golf first applied for recognition from the Official World Golf Ranking, which plays a key role in determining entry into golf's four majors, in July 2022 but was rejected last October. "We have made enormous efforts to fight for you and to ensure your accomplishments are recognized within the existing ranking system," Norman wrote in the letter, a copy of which was obtained by Reuters. "Unfortunately, the OWGR has shown little willingness to productively work with us." In unanimously rejecting LIV Golf's application last October, the OWGR said the circuit's 54-hole, no-cut events for 48 players was an issue but that it was one capable of being managed through an "appropriate mathematical formula". Norman said the rankings were structured to penalize anyone who has not played regularly on an "Eligible Tour" with the field ratings disproportionately rewarding play on the PGA Tour. He also called for an independent ranking system that recognizes how the game is "expanding and modernizing" and that he will continue doing all he can to ensure LIV Golf players were represented at the majors. Also read: Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti facing five years in prison over tax fraud "Golf fans deserve to see the best players in the world play in the best tournaments. That has always been our goal," said Norman. "We continue to seek meaningful communication and relationship with each of the majors to ensure that LIV golfers are fairly represented and golf fans around the world have opportunities to see the best competition possible." While golf's four majors have allowed qualified LIV players to compete, those who earned exemptions into the blue-riband events due to past results could one day be left out as they are not earning world ranking points. There are currently four LIV players inside the top 50 in the world rankings: Masters champion Jon Rahm (3), Tyrrell Hatton (17), Brooks Koepka (30) and Cam Smith (50). LIV's Joaquin Niemann accepted a special invitation last month to compete in the Masters after a solid run of form that included victories at the DP World Tour's Australian Open in December and LIV Golf's season opener at Mayakoba last month. LIV Golf's season resumes this week at Hong Kong Golf Club.

LIV Golf gives up bid for world ranking points

As a U.S. Senate committee investigates the possibility of a PGA Tour merger with LIV Golf, bankers and consultants who advise Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund have testified that they face "criminal and financial penalties" if they cooperate with the probe.

According to a report by Bloomberg News, the PIF sued its advisers in a Saudi court last November preventing them from sharing information with the U.S. Senate committee on homeland security and governmental affairs.

In Washington this week, banker Michael Klein and representatives of consulting firms McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and Teneo Strategy faced lawmakers and pled their case for not cooperating.

"The PIF has been explicit that the disclosure of information relating to BCG's work for PIF is a violation of Saudi law, which ‘imposes criminal penalties for disclosing or disseminating such information including imprisonment for a maximum of 20 years,'" BCG's Rich Lesser said in prepared testimony. "We risk criminal and financial penalties for the firm and for individuals working or living in Saudi Arabia."

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That includes 20-year prison sentences for executives and staff working in Saudi Arabia, Klein said.

"This represents aberrant behavior for a client, and, quite frankly, for the PIF, who has historically been a client that has operated with best practices of governance with us," Klein said at a hearing.

The executives added that they are fighting the PIF's lawsuit, Bloomberg reported. They claimed they are attempting to reduce the number of redactions in their documents submitted to the Senate panel. Most of BCG's 91-page document submission, for example, was calendar invitations with every attendee's name redacted.

Last June the PGA Tour announced the "framework agreement" for a shock merger with the PIF, which funds new rival league LIV Golf, as well as with the DP World Tour. While the PGA Tour has taken on a news investment partner made up of U.S.-based sports ownership groups, called Strategic Sports Group, it is said to still be in negotiations with the PIF.

It remains to be seen if the PGA merging with its only rival will be allowed under federal antitrust law.

The consulting groups' hesitance to work with the panel upset Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.).

"It's simply staggering to me that American companies are not only willing to accept this claim, allowing the Saudi government to determine what is permitted to provide this subcommittee -- but also that they would use it to justify their refusal to comply with a duly issued congressional subpoena," Blumenthal said.

In a statement to Bloomberg, the PIF said it was making "significant efforts to facilitate the production of requested information from our advisers consistent with the laws of Saudi Arabia, which should be recognized like those of any other country."

As a U.S. Senate committee investigates the possibility of a PGA Tour merger with LIV Golf, bankers and consultants who advise Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund have testified that they face "criminal and financial penalties" if they cooperate with the probe.

As a U.S. Senate committee investigates the possibility of a PGA Tour merger with LIV Golf, bankers and consultants who advise Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund have testified that they face "criminal and financial penalties" if they cooperate with the probe. According to a report by Bloomberg News, the PIF sued its advisers in a Saudi court last November preventing them from sharing information with the U.S. Senate committee on homeland security and governmental affairs. In Washington this week, banker Michael Klein and representatives of consulting firms McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and Teneo Strategy faced lawmakers and pled their case for not cooperating. "The PIF has been explicit that the disclosure of information relating to BCG's work for PIF is a violation of Saudi law, which ‘imposes criminal penalties for disclosing or disseminating such information including imprisonment for a maximum of 20 years,'" BCG's Rich Lesser said in prepared testimony. "We risk criminal and financial penalties for the firm and for individuals working or living in Saudi Arabia." ALSO READ: Rugby: Australia international Kurtley Beale found not guilty of rape in Sydney court That includes 20-year prison sentences for executives and staff working in Saudi Arabia, Klein said. "This represents aberrant behavior for a client, and, quite frankly, for the PIF, who has historically been a client that has operated with best practices of governance with us," Klein said at a hearing. The executives added that they are fighting the PIF's lawsuit, Bloomberg reported. They claimed they are attempting to reduce the number of redactions in their documents submitted to the Senate panel. Most of BCG's 91-page document submission, for example, was calendar invitations with every attendee's name redacted. Last June the PGA Tour announced the "framework agreement" for a shock merger with the PIF, which funds new rival league LIV Golf, as well as with the DP World Tour. While the PGA Tour has taken on a news investment partner made up of U.S.-based sports ownership groups, called Strategic Sports Group, it is said to still be in negotiations with the PIF. It remains to be seen if the PGA merging with its only rival will be allowed under federal antitrust law. The consulting groups' hesitance to work with the panel upset Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). "It's simply staggering to me that American companies are not only willing to accept this claim, allowing the Saudi government to determine what is permitted to provide this subcommittee -- but also that they would use it to justify their refusal to comply with a duly issued congressional subpoena," Blumenthal said. In a statement to Bloomberg, the PIF said it was making "significant efforts to facilitate the production of requested information from our advisers consistent with the laws of Saudi Arabia, which should be recognized like those of any other country."

Golf: Bankers warn Saudis of facing possible prison time for aiding PGA-LIV probe

Rory McIlroy concedes he has "changed his tune" on the issue of LIV&nbsp;golfers returning to play on the PGA Tour, with the four-time major champion now saying they should be able to come back without being punished. The Northern Irishman has been a vocal critic of the breakaway tour since it launched in 2022 and signed up a host of big names, causing a rift that threatened to tear&nbsp;golf&nbsp;apart.

McIlroy previously accused some of those who jumped ship as being duplicitous and that he would rather retire than join the Saudi Arabia-backed breakaway circuit. However, with negotiations on a merger between the PGA Tour and LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;ongoing, and McIlroy's Ryder Cup teammates Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton making the switch to LIV, the 34-year-old has recently softened his position on the rival tour.

"I think life is about choices. Guys made choices to go and play LIV, guys made choices to stay here," he told reporters on Tuesday ahead of the Pebble Beach Pro-Am tournament. "I think it's hard to punish people. I don't think there should be a punishment. "If people still have eligibility on this tour and they want to come back and play or you want to try and do something, let them come back. "Obviously, I've changed my tune on that because I see where&nbsp;golf&nbsp;is and I see that having a diminished PGA Tour and having a diminished LIV Tour or anything else is bad for both parties," McIlroy added.

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Englishman Hatton is the latest big name to join LIV, the world number 16 set to be part of an expansion team captained by Masters champion Rahm. "I had a long talk with Tyrrell on Sunday, completely understood where he was coming from," McIlroy said. "It got to the point where they negotiated and got to a place he was comfortable with and he has to do what he feels is right for him. I'm not going to stand in anyone's way from making money and if what they deem life-changing money."

Rory McIlroy concedes he has "changed his tune" on the issue of LIV golfers returning to play on the PGA Tour, with the four-time major champion now saying they should be able to come back without being punished.

Rory McIlroy concedes he has "changed his tune" on the issue of LIV golfers returning to play on the PGA Tour, with the four-time major champion now saying they should be able to come back without being punished. The Northern Irishman has been a vocal critic of the breakaway tour since it launched in 2022 and signed up a host of big names, causing a rift that threatened to tear golf apart. McIlroy previously accused some of those who jumped ship as being duplicitous and that he would rather retire than join the Saudi Arabia-backed breakaway circuit. However, with negotiations on a merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf ongoing, and McIlroy's Ryder Cup teammates Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton making the switch to LIV, the 34-year-old has recently softened his position on the rival tour. "I think life is about choices. Guys made choices to go and play LIV, guys made choices to stay here," he told reporters on Tuesday ahead of the Pebble Beach Pro-Am tournament. "I think it's hard to punish people. I don't think there should be a punishment. "If people still have eligibility on this tour and they want to come back and play or you want to try and do something, let them come back. "Obviously, I've changed my tune on that because I see where golf is and I see that having a diminished PGA Tour and having a diminished LIV Tour or anything else is bad for both parties," McIlroy added. Also read: Golf: PGA Tour sets 2024 Player Advisory Council Englishman Hatton is the latest big name to join LIV, the world number 16 set to be part of an expansion team captained by Masters champion Rahm. "I had a long talk with Tyrrell on Sunday, completely understood where he was coming from," McIlroy said. "It got to the point where they negotiated and got to a place he was comfortable with and he has to do what he feels is right for him. I'm not going to stand in anyone's way from making money and if what they deem life-changing money."

Golf: LIV players returning to PGA Tour should not be punished, says Rory McIlroy

LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;CEO Greg Norman said he appreciated Rory McIlroy "falling on his sword" after the Northern Irishman softened his stance on the Saudi-backed circuit, and suggested it could be a turning point for the sport. McIlroy has been one of the most vocal critics of LIV since the breakaway tour launched in 2022 and signed up a host of big names, causing a rift that threatened to tear&nbsp;golf&nbsp;apart.

The four-time major champion previously accused some of those who jumped ship as being duplicitous and that he would rather retire than join LIV. However, just weeks after his Ryder Cup team mate Jon Rahm stunned the&nbsp;golf&nbsp;world by swapping the PGA Tour for LIV, McIlroy said on the Stick to Football podcast that he regreted being too quick to judge those who had made the switch.

"The reason I say I appreciate Rory falling on his sword, to some degree, is the fact that he did judge us by not knowing the facts," Norman said on LIV's 'Fairway to Heaven' podcast on Thursday. "He judged us on other people's thoughts and opinions.

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"So, I say, 'hey, thank you Rory'. We all knew it was going to work within the&nbsp;golf&nbsp;ecosystem. We all wanted to be there, we are going to be there – he said that. To me, this is a hugely significant turning point for everybody ... "

In June last year, the PGA Tour, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) and DP World Tour announced a framework agreement to house their commercial operations in a new for-profit entity. While they were unable to finalise a definitive partnership agreement by a Dec. 31 deadline the PGA Tour wants to extend negotiations into 2024, according to a memo seen by Reuters.

LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman said he appreciated Rory McIlroy "falling on his sword" after the Northern Irishman softened his stance on the Saudi-backed circuit, and suggested it could be a turning point for the sport.

LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman said he appreciated Rory McIlroy "falling on his sword" after the Northern Irishman softened his stance on the Saudi-backed circuit, and suggested it could be a turning point for the sport. McIlroy has been one of the most vocal critics of LIV since the breakaway tour launched in 2022 and signed up a host of big names, causing a rift that threatened to tear golf apart. The four-time major champion previously accused some of those who jumped ship as being duplicitous and that he would rather retire than join LIV. However, just weeks after his Ryder Cup team mate Jon Rahm stunned the golf world by swapping the PGA Tour for LIV, McIlroy said on the Stick to Football podcast that he regreted being too quick to judge those who had made the switch. "The reason I say I appreciate Rory falling on his sword, to some degree, is the fact that he did judge us by not knowing the facts," Norman said on LIV's 'Fairway to Heaven' podcast on Thursday. "He judged us on other people's thoughts and opinions. Also read: IPL format for Saudi-backed LIV Golf might get strongest critic Rory McIlroy on board "So, I say, 'hey, thank you Rory'. We all knew it was going to work within the golf ecosystem. We all wanted to be there, we are going to be there – he said that. To me, this is a hugely significant turning point for everybody ... " In June last year, the PGA Tour, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) and DP World Tour announced a framework agreement to house their commercial operations in a new for-profit entity. While they were unable to finalise a definitive partnership agreement by a Dec. 31 deadline the PGA Tour wants to extend negotiations into 2024, according to a memo seen by Reuters.

Golf: Rory McIlroy 'falling on his sword' could be turning point, says LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman

Rory McIlroy says if LIV Golf was modelled like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and staged over two months then he would consider playing in it. The 34-year-old Northern Irishman has been a vocal opponent of the Saudi Arabia-funded LIV Golf once saying he would retire rather than play in it "if it was the last place to play golf on earth".

However, he has toned it down of late -- especially after his friend, fellow Ryder Cup star and formerly a stringent critic of LIV Jon Rahm decamped and is reportedly set to earn upwards of $566.4 million.&nbsp;Attracting some of world cricket's top stars with bumper salaries, the pioneering IPL helped make Twenty20 hugely popular, attracting hundreds of millions of viewers and spawning copycat events worldwide.

Last June, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) sold the broadcast rights for the next five IPL seasons to global media giants for an eye-watering $6.2 billion. LIV's circuit is based around team events with its 48 players split into 12 teams. "I would love LIV to turn into the IPL of golf," McIlroy told the Stick to Football Podcast. "They take two months of calendar. You go and do this team stuff and a bit different and is a different format.

"If they were to do something like that I would say 'yeah that sounds like fun' because you are working within the ecosystem." McIlroy said he had "accepted" LIV is "part of our sport now" but he takes issue with the huge sums being paid to players when it could be used to invest in the sport. "The thing I have come to realise is if you have got people, or a sovereign wealth fund, wanting to spend money in your sport that is ultimately a good thing," McIlroy said.

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"But you just want to get them to spend it the right way and spend it on things that are important in the game. "Instead of giving someone $100m why don't you put $50m into grassroots programmes for the R&amp;A or USPGA. Spending that money to actually grow the game and not just buy talent would be a way better way."

Four-time major winner McIlroy said he hoped the divisions sparked by the breakaway would be healed but he feared there was a lack of will to do so. "I hope everyone comes back together. You have got guys on both sides that don't want it to happen. The LIV guys don't want to come back to play on the PGA Tour because they don't think they have been treated very well. Some of the PGA Tour guys don't want to see those other guys. People need to put their egos and feelings aside and come back together and we all move forward because that would be a good thing for golf," he further stated.

Rory McIlroy says if LIV Golf was modelled like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and staged over two months then he would consider playing in it. The 34-year-old Northern Irishman has been a vocal opponent of the Saudi Arabia-funded LIV Golf once saying he would retire rather than play in it "if it was the last place to play golf on earth".

Rory McIlroy says if LIV Golf was modelled like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and staged over two months then he would consider playing in it. The 34-year-old Northern Irishman has been a vocal opponent of the Saudi Arabia-funded LIV Golf once saying he would retire rather than play in it "if it was the last place to play golf on earth". However, he has toned it down of late -- especially after his friend, fellow Ryder Cup star and formerly a stringent critic of LIV Jon Rahm decamped and is reportedly set to earn upwards of $566.4 million. Attracting some of world cricket's top stars with bumper salaries, the pioneering IPL helped make Twenty20 hugely popular, attracting hundreds of millions of viewers and spawning copycat events worldwide. Last June, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) sold the broadcast rights for the next five IPL seasons to global media giants for an eye-watering $6.2 billion. LIV's circuit is based around team events with its 48 players split into 12 teams. "I would love LIV to turn into the IPL of golf," McIlroy told the Stick to Football Podcast. "They take two months of calendar. You go and do this team stuff and a bit different and is a different format. "If they were to do something like that I would say 'yeah that sounds like fun' because you are working within the ecosystem." McIlroy said he had "accepted" LIV is "part of our sport now" but he takes issue with the huge sums being paid to players when it could be used to invest in the sport. "The thing I have come to realise is if you have got people, or a sovereign wealth fund, wanting to spend money in your sport that is ultimately a good thing," McIlroy said. Also read: Tennis: 'I'll be okay' - Novak Djokovic remains optimistic despite injury concerns ahead of Australian Open "But you just want to get them to spend it the right way and spend it on things that are important in the game. "Instead of giving someone $100m why don't you put $50m into grassroots programmes for the R&A or USPGA. Spending that money to actually grow the game and not just buy talent would be a way better way." Four-time major winner McIlroy said he hoped the divisions sparked by the breakaway would be healed but he feared there was a lack of will to do so. "I hope everyone comes back together. You have got guys on both sides that don't want it to happen. The LIV guys don't want to come back to play on the PGA Tour because they don't think they have been treated very well. Some of the PGA Tour guys don't want to see those other guys. People need to put their egos and feelings aside and come back together and we all move forward because that would be a good thing for golf," he further stated.

IPL format for Saudi-backed LIV Golf might get strongest critic Rory McIlroy on board

On Sunday (Dec 31), the PGA Tour worked hard&nbsp;to extend a deadline into 2024 in a bid to finalise&nbsp;a merger agreement with Saudi Arabian investors, with tour commissioner Jay Monahan labelling the talks "active and productive." The players were updated&nbsp;in a memo which came from Manmohan hours before&nbsp;the New Year&nbsp;to approve a framework agreement merging the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) that&nbsp;finances the upstart LIV Golf League.

An update on the PGA Tour website regarding talks said the memo, which&nbsp;was&nbsp;reportedly obtained by The Golf Channel and ESPN, put forward the efforts to extend the deadline into 2024. Monahan said in his memo, "While we had initially set a deadline of December 31, 2023, to reach an agreement, we are working to extend our negotiations into next year based on the progress we have made to date."

In addition, Monahan&nbsp;further opined that the PGA Tour had made "meaningful progress" in separate negotiations to have Strategic Sports Group (SSG) become a tour minority investor. His memo states that the goal remains to have PIF, the DP World Tour and SSG become minority co-investors in PGA Tour Enterprises in the new calendar year.

"These partnerships will allow us to unify, innovate and invest in the game for the benefit of the players, fans and sponsors,"&nbsp;highlighted Monahan.

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Earlier, ESPN reported the SSG would invest as many as $3 billion into the new entity. It, thus, suggests that it&nbsp;would be financed to more than $7 billion if the PIF investment were also taken into account. It is to be noted that the PGA Tour has been in negotiations with PIF since June with a stated Dec&nbsp;31 deadline on final details of a merger agreement. The development stunned one and all as many PGA Tour players&nbsp;demanded&nbsp;and acquired greater input in final approval of the deal.

In Dec&nbsp;2023, Spain's Jon Rahm --&nbsp;the reigning Masters champion --&nbsp;made heads turn when he switched&nbsp;from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf. This also indicated of how things could shape up&nbsp;in 2024 with&nbsp;more talents set to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf. It already comprises the likes of Cameron Smith, Phil Mickelson, Sergio Garcia,&nbsp;etc.&nbsp;

On Sunday (Dec 31), the PGA Tour worked hard to extend a deadline into 2024 in a bid to finalise a merger agreement with Saudi Arabian investors, with tour commissioner Jay Monahan labelling the talks "active and productive.

On Sunday (Dec 31), the PGA Tour worked hard to extend a deadline into 2024 in a bid to finalise a merger agreement with Saudi Arabian investors, with tour commissioner Jay Monahan labelling the talks "active and productive." The players were updated in a memo which came from Manmohan hours before the New Year to approve a framework agreement merging the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) that finances the upstart LIV Golf League. An update on the PGA Tour website regarding talks said the memo, which was reportedly obtained by The Golf Channel and ESPN, put forward the efforts to extend the deadline into 2024. Monahan said in his memo, "While we had initially set a deadline of December 31, 2023, to reach an agreement, we are working to extend our negotiations into next year based on the progress we have made to date." In addition, Monahan further opined that the PGA Tour had made "meaningful progress" in separate negotiations to have Strategic Sports Group (SSG) become a tour minority investor. His memo states that the goal remains to have PIF, the DP World Tour and SSG become minority co-investors in PGA Tour Enterprises in the new calendar year. "These partnerships will allow us to unify, innovate and invest in the game for the benefit of the players, fans and sponsors," highlighted Monahan. Also read: Tennis: New mother Naomi Osaka makes winning return in Brisbane ahead of Australian Open 2024 Earlier, ESPN reported the SSG would invest as many as $3 billion into the new entity. It, thus, suggests that it would be financed to more than $7 billion if the PIF investment were also taken into account. It is to be noted that the PGA Tour has been in negotiations with PIF since June with a stated Dec 31 deadline on final details of a merger agreement. The development stunned one and all as many PGA Tour players demanded and acquired greater input in final approval of the deal. In Dec 2023, Spain's Jon Rahm -- the reigning Masters champion -- made heads turn when he switched from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf. This also indicated of how things could shape up in 2024 with more talents set to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf. It already comprises the likes of Cameron Smith, Phil Mickelson, Sergio Garcia, etc.

Golf: PGA Tour works to extend 'active and productive' Saudi merger talks

Viktor Hovland has fired a warning to the PGA Tour saying the organisation is doing a bad job, but the Norwegian says he will not be defecting to the Saudi Arabia-backed LIV&nbsp;Golf. World number four Hovland joined a chorus of discontent about the power struggle at the top of the men's game between LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;and the PGA and DP World Tours.

"It must be fair to say that the PGA Tour has done a damn bad job," the 26-year-old Hovland, part of Europe's victorious Ryder Cup team, told Discovery's "FORE!" podcast. After a year of acrimony in which a succession of big names jumped ship, the PGA Tour and Europe-based DP World Tour announced in June a framework agreement with LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;for a merger and creation of a commercial entity to unite the game.

As part of the deal, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has bank-rolled LIV&nbsp;Golf, would serve as the exclusive investor. The deadline for talks with PIF is looming and the established tours suffered a fresh blow this month when Masters champion Jon Rahm made a U-turn to join LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;in a deal worth a reported $300 million.

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"It would be a bit silly to criticise players for leaving," Hovland said. "I understand why he (Rahm) left. There's a lot of money." Asked if he would follow Rahm, Hovland said: "No, I doubt it." But he took aim at Tour chiefs he said were not making decisions in the best interests of the players. "They are not professional&nbsp;golfers after all," he said. "There is a great deal of arrogance behind it all."

Hovland, the FedEx champion, said he would play fewer European events in 2024, adding: "The PGA Tour is not as strong as before. I just hope that it will return to normality."

Viktor Hovland has fired a warning to the PGA Tour saying the organisation is doing a bad job, but the Norwegian says he will not be defecting to the Saudi Arabia-backed LIV Golf.

Viktor Hovland has fired a warning to the PGA Tour saying the organisation is doing a bad job, but the Norwegian says he will not be defecting to the Saudi Arabia-backed LIV Golf. World number four Hovland joined a chorus of discontent about the power struggle at the top of the men's game between LIV Golf and the PGA and DP World Tours. "It must be fair to say that the PGA Tour has done a damn bad job," the 26-year-old Hovland, part of Europe's victorious Ryder Cup team, told Discovery's "FORE!" podcast. After a year of acrimony in which a succession of big names jumped ship, the PGA Tour and Europe-based DP World Tour announced in June a framework agreement with LIV Golf for a merger and creation of a commercial entity to unite the game. As part of the deal, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has bank-rolled LIV Golf, would serve as the exclusive investor. The deadline for talks with PIF is looming and the established tours suffered a fresh blow this month when Masters champion Jon Rahm made a U-turn to join LIV Golf in a deal worth a reported $300 million. Also read: Bundesliga: Thomas Mueller extends Bayern Munich deal until 2025 "It would be a bit silly to criticise players for leaving," Hovland said. "I understand why he (Rahm) left. There's a lot of money." Asked if he would follow Rahm, Hovland said: "No, I doubt it." But he took aim at Tour chiefs he said were not making decisions in the best interests of the players. "They are not professional golfers after all," he said. "There is a great deal of arrogance behind it all." Hovland, the FedEx champion, said he would play fewer European events in 2024, adding: "The PGA Tour is not as strong as before. I just hope that it will return to normality."

Golf: Arrogant PGA Tour chiefs doing a bad job, says Victor Hovland

LIV Golf chief executive Greg Norman says that Jon Rahm's move to the Saudi-backed circuit will "create a domino effect" of more high-profile players making the lucrative jump.

Reigning Masters champion Rahm last week joined LIV in a deal worth hundreds of millions of dollars in a huge coup for the upstart tour.

LIV had already recruited major winners Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Cameron Smith, but Rahm was arguably the biggest name yet to leave the PGA Tour.

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Speaking from Saudi Arabia to the BBC's World Business Report, the Australian Norman -- the public face of LIV -- said there would be "more apples falling from the tree".

"To have Jon on board is critically important to our next steps into the future and what we want to do," Norman said.

He added: "It will create a domino effect, there will be more apples falling from the tree, there's no question about it because LIV continues to grow and develop."

Spain's Rahm had previously ruled out going to LIV, which held its inaugural season in 2022 and triggered a civil war in golf.

He is reportedly set to earn between $300 million and $600 million.

"Since Jon signed, less than a week ago now, I know my phone is blowing up," Norman added.

"I know we probably have eight to 12 players who are very, very keen to sit down and talk to us about coming on board."

Saudi Arabia's foray into sport has triggered accusations that it is "sportswashing" its human rights record.

Norman, a two-time major winner, said that Saudi Arabia "really cares" about golf.

"If you see the way they're embracing the game of golf, they're investing in the game of golf in their country for their people into the future," he said.

Rahm's move came as the PGA Tour and the Saudi backers of LIV attempt to finalise the details of their bombshell merger announced in June.

A deadline of December 31 has been set to agree a framework for the new PGA-LIV joint venture.

LIV Golf chief executive Greg Norman says that Jon Rahm's move to the Saudi-backed circuit will "create a domino effect" of more high-profile players making the lucrative jump.

LIV Golf chief executive Greg Norman says that Jon Rahm's move to the Saudi-backed circuit will "create a domino effect" of more high-profile players making the lucrative jump. Reigning Masters champion Rahm last week joined LIV in a deal worth hundreds of millions of dollars in a huge coup for the upstart tour. LIV had already recruited major winners Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Cameron Smith, but Rahm was arguably the biggest name yet to leave the PGA Tour. Also Read: Argentina captain Lionel Messi’s 2022 World Cup final shirt expected to be sold for WHOPPING amount Speaking from Saudi Arabia to the BBC's World Business Report, the Australian Norman -- the public face of LIV -- said there would be "more apples falling from the tree". "To have Jon on board is critically important to our next steps into the future and what we want to do," Norman said. He added: "It will create a domino effect, there will be more apples falling from the tree, there's no question about it because LIV continues to grow and develop." Spain's Rahm had previously ruled out going to LIV, which held its inaugural season in 2022 and triggered a civil war in golf. He is reportedly set to earn between $300 million and $600 million. "Since Jon signed, less than a week ago now, I know my phone is blowing up," Norman added. "I know we probably have eight to 12 players who are very, very keen to sit down and talk to us about coming on board." Saudi Arabia's foray into sport has triggered accusations that it is "sportswashing" its human rights record. Norman, a two-time major winner, said that Saudi Arabia "really cares" about golf. "If you see the way they're embracing the game of golf, they're investing in the game of golf in their country for their people into the future," he said. Rahm's move came as the PGA Tour and the Saudi backers of LIV attempt to finalise the details of their bombshell merger announced in June. A deadline of December 31 has been set to agree a framework for the new PGA-LIV joint venture.

'More apples falling from the tree,' says chief Greg Norman after John Rahm joins LIV Golf

Golfers playing for the PGA Tour have demanded more information about the potential impact of capital tie-ups being discussed, saying they had been "kept entirely in the dark" about the organization's future. The PGA has announced plans to merge with Saudi-backed rival LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;but has also recently said it would advance discussions with U.S.-based Strategic Sports Group (SSG) which could come in as a co-investor.

Twenty-one&nbsp;golfers including 2016 Masters champion Danny Willett are seeking full disclosure of the details and analyses of any proposal by prospective partners as well as a meeting with the policy board, according to a Dec. 10 letter sent by law firm Susman Godfrey. "The Board has recently received multiple bids by prospective capital partners that will potentially transform how the PGA Tour operates, who controls it, and who owns it," attorney Jacob Buchdahl wrote. "All but a handful of PGA Tour players have been kept entirely in the dark about the prospective transaction, how it will impact them, and what conflicts of interest may impact the decision-makers."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-nick-kyrgios-doesnt-want-to-play-anymore-but-will-give-career-another-chance-669121">Tennis: Nick Kyrgios 'doesn't want to play anymore' but will give career another chance</a>

The PGA did not immediately reply to a request for comment. SSG includes Fenway Sports Group, owners of Major League Baseball's Boston Red Sox, as well as Premier League club Liverpool. It also includes investment firm Cohen Private Ventures, New York Mets owner Steve Cohen's family office and private equity firm HighPost Capital.

Reuters reported in September that Fenway Sports Group and Endeavor Group were interested in investing in the PGA Tour and any potential transaction would rival PGA's deal with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.

Golfers playing for the PGA Tour have demanded more information about the potential impact of capital tie-ups being discussed, saying they had been "kept entirely in the dark" about the organization's future.

Golfers playing for the PGA Tour have demanded more information about the potential impact of capital tie-ups being discussed, saying they had been "kept entirely in the dark" about the organization's future. The PGA has announced plans to merge with Saudi-backed rival LIV Golf but has also recently said it would advance discussions with U.S.-based Strategic Sports Group (SSG) which could come in as a co-investor. Twenty-one golfers including 2016 Masters champion Danny Willett are seeking full disclosure of the details and analyses of any proposal by prospective partners as well as a meeting with the policy board, according to a Dec. 10 letter sent by law firm Susman Godfrey. "The Board has recently received multiple bids by prospective capital partners that will potentially transform how the PGA Tour operates, who controls it, and who owns it," attorney Jacob Buchdahl wrote. "All but a handful of PGA Tour players have been kept entirely in the dark about the prospective transaction, how it will impact them, and what conflicts of interest may impact the decision-makers." Also read: Tennis: Nick Kyrgios 'doesn't want to play anymore' but will give career another chance The PGA did not immediately reply to a request for comment. SSG includes Fenway Sports Group, owners of Major League Baseball's Boston Red Sox, as well as Premier League club Liverpool. It also includes investment firm Cohen Private Ventures, New York Mets owner Steve Cohen's family office and private equity firm HighPost Capital. Reuters reported in September that Fenway Sports Group and Endeavor Group were interested in investing in the PGA Tour and any potential transaction would rival PGA's deal with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.

Golf: 'Kept entirely in the dark' - PGA members demand information about Tour's future

In a big development, Masters champion Jon Rahm switched from the PGA Tour to Saudi-backed LIV&nbsp;Golf, on Thursday, in a big-money move. His jump has certainly raised eyebrows and has sent another shockwave through the sport. There were speculations of him looking to join LIV Golf when he recently bowed out of the upcoming American Express tournament, a PGA Tour event to be held in January, where he has considerable success (winning it twice).&nbsp;

With this, the 29-year-old Rahm becomes the biggest name to associate&nbsp;with the rebel circuit funded by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) following Australia's&nbsp;Cameron Smith.&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;came on board&nbsp;after clinching the&nbsp;British Open last year.

In a statement from LIV Golf, Rahm said, "I am proud to join LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;and be part of something new that is bringing growth to the sport. I have no doubt that this is a great opportunity for me and my family and am very excited for the future."

In an interview later on Fox News, Rahm pointed out that it was a tough call to move to the LIV Golf but admitted that money was one of the big factors.&nbsp;"But there is a lot of things that LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;has to offer that were very, very enticing," said the former world number one.

As per reports, it is believed that the world number three has gained a huge deal which will see him being paid&nbsp;at least $300 million with some media outlets putting the guarantee at closer to $600 million.

<h2>Mcllroy on Rahm's switch -&nbsp;Is it disappointing to me? Yes</h2>

Rory McIlroy, one of the biggest supporters of PGA Tour and one of the loudest critic of LIV Golf, reacted to Rahm's switch and said on X, formerly Twitter, "It's hard to sit here and criticise Jon because of what a great player he is and the experiences I have had with him. I have nothing but good things to say about Jon."

"I respect the hell out of him as a&nbsp;golfer and he seems like he wants to live his life the right way. "The thing I realise is you can't judge someone for making a decision they feel is the best thing for them. "Is it disappointing to me? Yes," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-outfit-juventus-not-keen-on-rejoining-european-club-association-team-says-667352">Serie A outfit Juventus not keen on rejoining European Club Association, team says</a>

LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;commissioner and CEO Greg Norman also reacted to Rahm's big move.&nbsp;"When I first met Jon at the age of 17, I knew then that the&nbsp;golfing world was about to witness the birth of a new star," he said. "He’s a generational talent who has proven his merit as a multiple major champion and tremendous ambassador for global&nbsp;golf&nbsp;by placing the game ahead of himself. There are very few athletes with his pedigree of talent, leadership, poise, and commitment to bringing progress to the sport on a worldwide stage," Normal further opined.

Thus, Rahm joins a star-studded set of players who are already part of LIV Golf, including&nbsp;Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Smith, Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau.

In a big development, Masters champion Jon Rahm switched from the PGA Tour to Saudi-backed LIV Golf, on Thursday, in a big-money move. His jump has certainly raised eyebrows and has sent another shockwave through the sport.

In a big development, Masters champion Jon Rahm switched from the PGA Tour to Saudi-backed LIV Golf, on Thursday, in a big-money move. His jump has certainly raised eyebrows and has sent another shockwave through the sport. There were speculations of him looking to join LIV Golf when he recently bowed out of the upcoming American Express tournament, a PGA Tour event to be held in January, where he has considerable success (winning it twice). With this, the 29-year-old Rahm becomes the biggest name to associate with the rebel circuit funded by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) following Australia's Cameron Smith. Smith came on board after clinching the British Open last year. In a statement from LIV Golf, Rahm said, "I am proud to join LIV Golf and be part of something new that is bringing growth to the sport. I have no doubt that this is a great opportunity for me and my family and am very excited for the future." In an interview later on Fox News, Rahm pointed out that it was a tough call to move to the LIV Golf but admitted that money was one of the big factors. "But there is a lot of things that LIV Golf has to offer that were very, very enticing," said the former world number one. As per reports, it is believed that the world number three has gained a huge deal which will see him being paid at least $300 million with some media outlets putting the guarantee at closer to $600 million. Mcllroy on Rahm's switch - Is it disappointing to me? Yes Rory McIlroy, one of the biggest supporters of PGA Tour and one of the loudest critic of LIV Golf, reacted to Rahm's switch and said on X, formerly Twitter, "It's hard to sit here and criticise Jon because of what a great player he is and the experiences I have had with him. I have nothing but good things to say about Jon." "I respect the hell out of him as a golfer and he seems like he wants to live his life the right way. "The thing I realise is you can't judge someone for making a decision they feel is the best thing for them. "Is it disappointing to me? Yes," he added. Also read: Serie A outfit Juventus not keen on rejoining European Club Association, team says LIV Golf commissioner and CEO Greg Norman also reacted to Rahm's big move. "When I first met Jon at the age of 17, I knew then that the golfing world was about to witness the birth of a new star," he said. "He’s a generational talent who has proven his merit as a multiple major champion and tremendous ambassador for global golf by placing the game ahead of himself. There are very few athletes with his pedigree of talent, leadership, poise, and commitment to bringing progress to the sport on a worldwide stage," Normal further opined. Thus, Rahm joins a star-studded set of players who are already part of LIV Golf, including Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Smith, Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau.

Golf: Masters champion Jon Rahm jumps from PGA Tour to LIV Golf in big-money move

Rory McIlroy said the European side will have to "rewrite the rules" for Ryder Cup eligibility after Spain's reigning Masters champion Jon Rahm jumped ship to LIV Golf.

Saudi-backed LIV pulled off a coup on Thursday when Rahm confirmed weeks of speculation by announcing he was joining the circuit in a deal reportedly worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia have all been declared ineligible to play for Europe at the Ryder Cup after signing for LIV.&nbsp;Henrik Stenson was removed as captain. World number two McIlroy, a fierce and outspoken opponent of LIV, said Rahm following the other players to LIV would require the DP World Tour -- formerly the European Tour -- to rethink its stance.

Rahm is a mainstay of the European team and helped it win the Ryder Cup this year. The next Ryder Cup is in Bethpage, New York. "Jon is going to be in Bethpage in 2025," Northern Ireland's McIlroy told Sky Sports on Thursday, after Rahm's move to LIV was confirmed.

"So because of this decision, the European Tour are going to have to rewrite the rules for Ryder Cup eligibility. "There's absolutely no question about that -- I certainly want Jon Rahm on the next Ryder Cup team."

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McIlroy said earlier this year that no LIV rebels should be able to play for Europe at the Ryder Cup. Rahm's move comes as the PGA Tour and the Saudi backers of LIV Golf attempt to finalise the details of their bombshell merger announced in June.

A deadline of December 31 has been set to agree on a framework for the new PGA-LIV joint venture. With Rahm arguably the biggest star yet to join LIV, McIlroy fears that professional golf is in danger of "cannibalising itself".

"My fear is that we continue down this path where we have competing tours and it divides the eyeballs that are on the game," McIlroy&nbsp;said.

Rory McIlroy said the European side will have to "rewrite the rules" for Ryder Cup eligibility after Spain's reigning Masters champion Jon Rahm jumped ship to LIV Golf.

Rory McIlroy said the European side will have to "rewrite the rules" for Ryder Cup eligibility after Spain's reigning Masters champion Jon Rahm jumped ship to LIV Golf. Saudi-backed LIV pulled off a coup on Thursday when Rahm confirmed weeks of speculation by announcing he was joining the circuit in a deal reportedly worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia have all been declared ineligible to play for Europe at the Ryder Cup after signing for LIV. Henrik Stenson was removed as captain. World number two McIlroy, a fierce and outspoken opponent of LIV, said Rahm following the other players to LIV would require the DP World Tour -- formerly the European Tour -- to rethink its stance. Rahm is a mainstay of the European team and helped it win the Ryder Cup this year. The next Ryder Cup is in Bethpage, New York. "Jon is going to be in Bethpage in 2025," Northern Ireland's McIlroy told Sky Sports on Thursday, after Rahm's move to LIV was confirmed. "So because of this decision, the European Tour are going to have to rewrite the rules for Ryder Cup eligibility. "There's absolutely no question about that -- I certainly want Jon Rahm on the next Ryder Cup team." Also Read: United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee confident about safety measures for 2024 Paris Games McIlroy said earlier this year that no LIV rebels should be able to play for Europe at the Ryder Cup. Rahm's move comes as the PGA Tour and the Saudi backers of LIV Golf attempt to finalise the details of their bombshell merger announced in June. A deadline of December 31 has been set to agree on a framework for the new PGA-LIV joint venture. With Rahm arguably the biggest star yet to join LIV, McIlroy fears that professional golf is in danger of "cannibalising itself". "My fear is that we continue down this path where we have competing tours and it divides the eyeballs that are on the game," McIlroy said.

Golf: Rory McIlroy urges for Ryder Cup rule change following Rahm's LIV move

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