“They are never going to merge those 2 tours”- Padraig Harrington
Padraig Harrington, a two-time Open Championship winner, recently expressed doubts about the future of the PGA Tour and PIF merger. Speaking ahead of the 2024 Open Championship, Harrington stated that the merger is unlikely to happen, citing time constraints and player preferences as significant obstacles. “They are never going to merge those two tours; there’s…
Padraig Harrington, a two-time Open Championship winner, recently expressed doubts about the future of the PGA Tour and PIF merger. Speaking ahead of the 2024 Open Championship, Harrington stated that the merger is unlikely to happen, citing time constraints and player preferences as significant obstacles.
“They are never going to merge those two tours; there’s not enough time for two tours like that. Players don’t necessarily want to play that much or play outside the [United] States. It’s not going to be an actual merger,” Harrington said, as reported by NUCLR Golf.
However, Harrington did see the potential for an agreement that would allow for a free flow of movement between both tours, fostering a healthy rivalry. “What they need is an agreement where they can have a crossover between the two tours, a bit like the old days with the PGA Tour and European Tour when there was a bit of a rivalry,” he suggested.
Padraig Harrington will compete in the 2024 Open Championship, scheduled to take place from July 18 to 21 at the Royal Troon Golf Club. The Irish golfer secured back-to-back victories in the major tournament in 2007 and 2008, granting him past champion exemption status.
**Harrington’s Future Plans for the Open Championship**
Looking ahead, Harrington plans to continue playing in the Open Championship until 2032, hoping his exemption status will culminate with him competing at Portmarnock in his home country of Ireland. Speaking to the Irish Golfer, Harrington shared his aspirations:
“It would be very nice if it was to be my last year in 2032 that The Open came to Portmarnock. Hopefully, something can happen on that. It would be my last one… I’d be 60 that year. I know I’d try again [to qualify], you know what I am like. But I can’t see it fitting in any date before 2030. So maybe wait an extra year.”
Harrington’s wins at the Open Championship have ensured his exemption until the age of 60, giving him the opportunity to compete in one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments for many years to come.
