Rory McIlroy Discusses the Lingering PGA Tour and LIV Merger

It’s likely that Rory McIlroy is tired of the constant chatter surrounding the potential merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. Likewise, you might be weary from reading about it. Despite this, the ongoing negotiations between the PGA Tour and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) linger, with the outcome poised to significantly influence the future landscape of professional golf.

After two years of stagnation, recent discussions featuring key figures like President Donald Trump, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan, and golf icons Adam Scott and Tiger Woods, as well as PIF governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan, have sparked rumors about potential progress. Yet, a conclusive agreement remains elusive. Meanwhile, the PGA Tour has introduced TGL to its lineup, which has performed well in terms of ratings, and television viewership has shown a resurgence in early 2023.

At the Arnold Palmer Invitational, hosting its strongest field so far this year, McIlroy was questioned about the necessity of a deal given the Tour’s current success. He remarked, “I think the narrative around golf would welcome a deal, as it would bring the best players together again. But I don’t believe the PGA Tour necessarily requires one. The momentum is strong. TV and TGL have positively contributed to the situation. Although a deal would be ideal for golf, from a PGA Tour standpoint, it’s not critically needed.”

McIlroy previously expressed a similar sentiment at the Genesis Invitational, emphasizing the benefits of unifying the two sides for the game’s betterment. “What’s done is done, and though it’s unfortunate, coming together is the best path forward,” he stated. “If feelings are hurt because some players joined LIV, who cares? Let’s unite and focus on what’s best for golf.”

When asked about any developments since those statements, McIlroy commented, “It takes two to tango. If one party is ready and the other is not, it complicates things.” He agreed that having the best players compete more consistently, supplemented by investment from the PIF, would be ideal. However, the logistics remain unclear to him. “I thought about it a lot in the past, but it’s not my area. You could consider exemption categories for capturing top players, like major winners in recent years or champions, but it’s not my responsibility.”

Reflecting on recent optimism from White House discussions, does McIlroy perceive the deal as any closer? “It never felt that close,” McIlroy admitted. “It doesn’t seem any nearer now.”