Tiger Woods Hints at Possible LIV Golfers' Return to PGA Tour, Thanks to Trump's Intervention
Tiger Woods has suggested that LIV golfers may soon be making a surprise return to the PGA Tour this year, largely due to former President Donald Trump’s active role in discussions to unify the sport. Since the emergence of the Saudi-backed LIV circuit in 2022, professional golf has been divided. The LIV tour’s creation led to a contentious split, with many high-profile players leaving the PGA Tour to join LIV. Although a framework agreement was established between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund in the summer of 2023, progress has been minimal.
Woods believes the situation is on the brink of change. Recently, Trump hosted a meeting at the White House with Adam Scott, a board member of the PGA Tour, and Jay Monahan, its commissioner. In the past, Trump has claimed he could swiftly resolve the fundamental issues plaguing golf.
“I believe we are in a very optimistic position right now,” Woods expressed during an interview with CBS at the final round of the Genesis Invitational on Sunday.
“We had a session with the president. Unfortunately, I had personal matters to attend to, but Jay and Adam did an outstanding job during the meeting, and we have another meeting scheduled soon.
“I am confident that things are going to improve rapidly. We’re steering this game back on course after years of misdirection. Fans want all the top golfers on the same stage, and we’re going to make that happen.”
When questioned about the possibility of reunification happening this year, Woods answered: “Yes and yes.”
Woods’ optimism is noteworthy. As the most renowned player of his era and a 15-time major winner, Woods has previously advocated for the interests of the PGA Tour specifically. His current suggestion that LIV players might rejoin the PGA Tour, and likewise, PGA Tour players might participate in LIV events, marks a shift in his earlier stance. Trump’s return to the presidency was always seen as potentially beneficial for golf, given his sway over the US Department of Justice, which closely scrutinizes dealings between American entities and Saudi Arabia.
The “personal matters” Woods alluded to involved the death of his mother, Kultida, publicly announced on February 4th. “Mom was my cornerstone,” Woods shared. “It’s a challenging time, but I’ve received incredible support from family and fellow players this week. The comforting messages, texts, and emails truly helped me through this difficult period.”
Regarding his plans for the 2025 season, Woods remained uncertain. He had initially intended to participate in the Genesis Invitational before his mother’s passing. Focus now shifts to whether he’ll play in the Arnold Palmer Invitational or the Players Championship before the Masters in early April. Ludvig Åberg emerged victorious at the Genesis, winning by a narrow margin over Maverick McNealy, and continuing a strong showing for European players on the PGA Tour.