Justin Thomas weighs in on PGA Tour-LIV Golf merger with ‘consequences’ demand

Justin Thomas has expressed his strong sentiments regarding the ongoing rift in professional golf caused by the emergence of LIV Golf and its subsequent impact on the PGA Tour. Reflecting on the exodus of notable players to the Saudi-backed league in 2022, including Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, and Brooks Koepka, Thomas emphasized the lingering frustration among PGA Tour loyalists, including himself.

Acknowledging the toll this division has taken on both fans and sponsors, with declining TV audiences and concerns raised by major sponsors like the Royal Bank of Canada, Thomas stressed the urgency for a resolution. While a framework agreement between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) was announced nearly a year ago, tangible progress has been slow, with numerous missed deadlines.

Despite his personal feelings of resentment towards LIV Golf players, Thomas recognized the necessity for unity in the sport and the importance of players competing against each other. However, he maintained that there should be consequences for those who abandoned the PGA Tour for LIV, should they wish to return.

While Thomas’s stance echoes sentiments previously shared by Rory McIlroy, who initially advocated for consequences but has since softened his stance, McIlroy now emphasizes the importance of sealing a merger deal promptly. He believes that players should not be punished for their choices and advocates for a more inclusive approach to resolving the conflict.

As discussions continue between the tours and stakeholders, the future of professional golf remains uncertain. The hope is that a compromise can be reached, allowing players from both tours to compete together and ultimately benefit the game as a whole.