The PGA Tour and LIV Golf: Is a Merger Necessary?
The debate over whether the PGA Tour truly needs to merge with LIV Golf continues to divide the golf world. While many believe the PGA Tour can sustain itself without external financial support, the same cannot be said for LIV Golf. The Saudi-backed league, funded by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has yet to become financially independent. Over the past three years, the PIF has poured $5 billion into LIV Golf, which is the sole reason for its survival. Without this backing, the league would struggle to host events, and many players might reconsider their participation without the guarantee of substantial paychecks.
Some analysts have argued that LIV Golf is not worth the valuation that the PGA Tour has placed on it, further fueling skepticism about the necessity of a merger.
PGA Tour Players and Legends Oppose the Merger
Many fans and players have voiced their opposition to the merger. Among them is Rory McIlroy, one of the biggest names in professional golf, who has publicly stated, “I don’t think the PGA Tour needs a deal.” Recently, another prominent figure echoed this sentiment, offering an even more detailed analysis of the situation—PGA Tour legend Lee Trevino.
During an interview at THE PLAYERS Championship 2025 with The Golf Channel, Trevino highlighted the strong position of the PGA Tour. He described golf’s current landscape as thriving, emphasizing, “Golf is in a hell of a position right now. It is great!” He pointed out that the Tour is experiencing increased attendance, higher television ratings, and strong fan engagement. Additionally, he noted that players are competing at a faster pace, which has enhanced the viewing experience.
Trevino also explained that the PGA Tour’s popularity is so widespread that television broadcasts no longer need to focus on just a few marquee players to maintain audience interest. He further emphasized the Tour’s strong financial backing from sponsors, suggesting that outside perspectives confirm that LIV Golf is struggling. According to Trevino, “LIV Golf is dead. The other side is gone.”
LIV Golf Faces Challenges
Trevino’s comments come amid ongoing struggles for LIV Golf, which has been plagued by poor television ratings and declining viewership. The recent LIV Golf Riyadh event, for example, recorded an average of only 70,000 viewers on Sunday, making it one of the least-watched tournaments of the year.
Despite these setbacks, LIV Golf remains supported by figures like Phil Mickelson, who has consistently defended the league. Over the years, Mickelson has actively promoted LIV Golf, using social media, brand partnerships, and public statements to advocate for its success.
Mickelson’s Changing Stance on the Merger
In 2024, Mickelson stated, “I don’t know if [the merger] is necessary,” reflecting skepticism about a potential deal between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. However, his position appears to have evolved. He later remarked, “We are three or four years in, but it’s going to take a little while for this partnership to work out. It has taken them a long time to come to an agreement, and I think it will take years for this to play out. When all is said and done, I think golf is going to be in a way better place.”
Mickelson now seems to acknowledge that a merger may be inevitable, even if the process remains in its early stages. His comments align with recent discussions involving PIF Governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan, PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan, and former U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House. These meetings suggest that negotiations are still ongoing, though no definitive agreement has been reached.
The Future of Professional Golf
The central question remains: does the PGA Tour truly need to merge with LIV Golf? Some view the potential merger as a necessary evolution for professional golf, while others argue that it is merely a financial move to benefit certain stakeholders.
With continued discussions and shifting perspectives, the golf community remains divided on what the future holds for both tours. Will the PGA Tour continue its dominance independently, or will LIV Golf’s financial backing force a partnership? As negotiations unfold, the landscape of professional golf may change dramatically in the coming years.