LIV Golf star and Ryder Cup hero shares true feelings on PGA Tour split situation

Martin Kaymer, the former Ryder Cup hero, has shared his thoughts on the ongoing merger discussions between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, which is backed by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF). Kaymer, who left the PGA Tour for LIV Golf in 2022, believes the merger deal is far from completion and finds the situation puzzling.

Kaymer, celebrated for his decisive putt that won the 2012 Ryder Cup for Europe, expressed his opinions in an interview with bunkered.co.uk. He noted his confusion over the difficulties in finalizing the merger, suggesting that it could be due to personal or financial disagreements. “I’m not a businessman or a politician, so I don’t understand why it’s so difficult to find common ground for the greater good,” Kaymer said. “I don’t know if it’s personal or just about greed.”

Despite playing in the U.S. recently, Kaymer remains skeptical about the merger’s imminent success, highlighting the lack of clear information provided to players and fans. He remarked, “Does it frustrate me? Not really because I’m happy playing on the LIV Tour and occasionally on the European Tour when allowed. It’s just hard for ordinary people to understand why it doesn’t work.”

Kaymer emphasized that his decision to join LIV Golf was the right choice for him, despite facing significant criticism. “I was overwhelmed by the criticism we received two and a half years ago, not just towards me but also my family and friends,” he said. “It felt narrow-minded and childish at times.”

However, Kaymer remains content with his choice, appreciating the transparency and direction provided by LIV Golf. “I like the transparency that LIV offers us. We know exactly what we’re getting into and where LIV is headed. You feel like part of the process,” he concluded.