Top Ranked Player Jordan Spieth Denies Alliance with Tiger Woods, Others Amid PGA Tour Negotiations
In recent developments surrounding the PGA Tour’s negotiations with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf, Jordan Spieth has refuted claims of being part of an alliance alongside Tiger Woods and Patrick Cantlay. The deadline for finalizing the framework agreement with the Saudi backers, who recently attracted Masters champion Jon Rahm, is approaching. Contrary to reports suggesting Cantlay…
In recent developments surrounding the PGA Tour’s negotiations with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf, Jordan Spieth has refuted claims of being part of an alliance alongside Tiger Woods and Patrick Cantlay. The deadline for finalizing the framework agreement with the Saudi backers, who recently attracted Masters champion Jon Rahm, is approaching.
Contrary to reports suggesting Cantlay was driving negotiations, Spieth clarified, “It’s been very collective since I’ve jumped on. We’re looking for the best outcome for the players as a whole.” Spieth, who replaced Rory McIlroy on the board, emphasized the unity of the six-player directors.
The PGA Tour has until December 31 to conclude its agreement with the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Although the deadline could be extended, Commissioner Jay Monahan labeled December 31 as a “firm target.” Talks involve private equity groups, with Acorn Growth and Fenway Sports Group emerging as leading contenders.
Negotiations gained complexity with Rahm’s move to the rival league, highlighting the financial prowess of the PIF. Spieth noted, “It’s a nice leveraging tool with everything going on,” acknowledging the strategic play by the Saudis.
Addressing reports about Cantlay, Spieth defended him, stating, “In no way, shape, or form does he control anything. He, like the rest of us, are all in agreement.” Spieth praised Cantlay’s contributions to the PGA Tour, asserting, “He’s done more for the PGA Tour in the last six months on the board than anyone since Tiger.”
The Acorn Growth bid features Randall Stephenson, a retired AT&T chairman who resigned from the tour board in protest of the Saudi deal. Spieth, an AT&T ambassador, finds himself connected to the bid. Meanwhile, Woods, appointed to the board four months ago, joins other player directors Webb Simpson, Charley Hoffman, and Peter Malnati.
As negotiations continue and the golf landscape undergoes shifts with high-profile player movements, the PGA Tour faces a crucial period in safeguarding the interests of its members. The dynamics between players, the board, and external investors will undoubtedly shape the future landscape of professional golf.
