‘Complicated discussions’: No move on LIV merger

There is still no compromise between LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman and his players regarding the convergence with the PGA Tour. Despite ongoing discussions, there won’t be a unification of the PGA Tour and LIV Golf in 2025. The PGA Tour recently confirmed just one change to its 2025 schedule, while Commissioner Jay Monahan remained vague about the “complicated discussions” with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) concerning the future of the sport.

This week, the rival tours are hosting events in different parts of the United States: the penultimate LIV Golf event of the season is taking place in West Virginia, while the PGA Tour playoffs, featuring a $100 million prize pool, have kicked off in Memphis.

The full 39-event PGA Tour schedule for 2025 was announced during the St. Jude Classic, including eight “signature events” each offering $30 million in prize money. However, Monahan did not provide any significant updates on the potential merging of the tours, leaving questions about the future of golf unanswered.

Jon Rahm, a former world No.1 and recent LIV Golf winner, expressed his hope to participate in the PGA Tour’s signature events soon. However, Monahan did not indicate any imminent changes that would allow LIV players to rejoin the PGA Tour.

“At the moment, those are the changes. I don’t know if, as we get into the fall, there will be other things we want to discuss or consider for next year or the future,” Monahan said. “These discussions are very complicated, with many elements to consider. But given the ongoing interactions and discussions, I remain hopeful.”

He added, “In terms of timelines and where we stand, I’d say we’re in a good place with the conversations, and that’s what matters most.”

The LIV event at Greenbrier marks the 100th competitive round for the breakaway tour, which has gained significant traction since its inaugural event in the UK in 2022. Major wins by LIV stars like Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau, along with securing big names like Rahm with nine-figure deals, have bolstered LIV’s influence in the golf world.

Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson, an early LIV signee, stated that the tour’s progress has not only justified his decision to join but has also “changed the face of golf” and contributed to pushing the game towards a more unified future.

“This is an exciting time,” Watson said. “When I decided to join LIV, I thought about the long-term goals, and it has exceeded my expectations. We’ve changed the face of golf, and being part of that history is special. Years ago, when the PGA Tour was established, legends like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus were part of that change. Now, I’m honored to be part of this new era.”

He continued, “Scottie Scheffler has earned a lot this year because of the changes we’ve initiated. I believe golf is moving in the right direction, and I think team golf is here to stay. I’m excited for the upcoming events and the future of the sport.”