McIlroy sees PGA Tour and LIV Golf union as difficult: “Irrational” expenses hinder merger

The renowned golfer Rory McIlroy has expressed his doubts about the possibility of a quick reconciliation in the world of golf, attributing the existing division to the excessive expenses of the LIV series. The current situation, according to McIlroy, has created a significant gap in the sport. Initially, hopes for a solution were held after the merger proposal, after the Saudi LIV league attracted numerous stars with millionaire contracts in 2021, generating considerable friction. However, more than two and a half years after said proposal, the parties involved do not seem any closer to reaching an agreement.

“You see other sports that have been fractured for so long,” McIlroy commented at CNBC’s CEO Council Forum. “Consider boxing, or what has happened in motor racing in the United States with Indy and NASCAR. I think for golf in general, it would be better if there was a unification.”

Rory McIlroyMcIlroy also added that the current situation makes unification extremely difficult. The golfer, a defender of the traditional structure of men’s professional golf, noted that attempts were made to negotiate with individuals who, to some extent, acted irrationally in terms of capital investment and expenses.

The golfer pointed out that, after four or five years, there has still been no return on investment, and it is likely that further spending will be required to maintain the current situation. McIlroy emphasized that many of the golfers’ contracts are nearing their end, which could lead to requests for similar or even higher figures. LIV has invested a considerable sum of money, and it is likely that it will need to invest a similar amount to maintain its position. In conclusion, McIlroy feels more comfortable on the PGA Tour, but acknowledges uncertainty about the future. Bryson DeChambeau, LIV golfer, agrees that the parties are currently very distant. “I would like something important to happen, but I don’t think it will happen in the immediate future,” DeChambeau told Fox News. DeChambeau believes that there are too many demands from both sides and few concessions. Despite this, he trusts that golf will continue to grow internationally.