Rory McIlroy reveals private Tiger Woods meeting to discuss LIV merger with PGA Tour
During the Genesis Invitational last month, Rory McIlroy engaged in a conversation with Tiger Woods regarding the PGA Tour’s ongoing negotiations with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the future direction of golf. Last June, a significant merger between the PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and the DP World Tour aimed to end golf’s internal…
During the Genesis Invitational last month, Rory McIlroy engaged in a conversation with Tiger Woods regarding the PGA Tour’s ongoing negotiations with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the future direction of golf.
Last June, a significant merger between the PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and the DP World Tour aimed to end golf’s internal conflicts. However, negotiations have extended beyond the initial December 31 deadline into 2024.
In late January, the PGA Tour secured a substantial agreement with Strategic Sports Group (SSG), a private equity investment fund, valued at billions. A pivotal aspect of this deal grants nearly 200 players access to over $1.5 billion as equity owners in the newly formed PGA Tour Enterprises.
Despite these developments, uncertainty looms over golf’s future, leaving players somewhat uninformed about the discussions unfolding behind closed doors.
McIlroy and Woods, two prominent figures on the PGA Tour, hold influence among their peers. McIlroy disclosed that their conversation touched on various topics, including the PIF negotiations, SSG’s involvement, and strategies for the Tour’s growth.
“We’re all part of the business now,” McIlroy remarked, emphasizing the players’ newfound roles as equity holders. He expressed a desire for the PGA Tour and PIF to reach a resolution swiftly to foster unity within the sport.
McIlroy highlighted the fatigue among golf fans due to prolonged negotiations and advocated for a return to the essence of the game – watching top players compete regularly.
“The sooner this is resolved, the better for the game and everyone involved,” McIlroy asserted, stressing the importance of refocusing attention on the players’ performances rather than off-course discussions.
He envisioned a unified golfing landscape that would reignite excitement among fans and propel the sport forward in a positive direction.
“If you just unified the game and brought us all back together in some way, that would be great for the fans,” McIlroy concluded, expressing optimism for a future where golf’s focus is squarely on the competition.
