Rory McIlroy casts doubt on LIV Golf’s future and discusses players returning to the PGA Tour in a recent podcast.
In a 60-minute episode of the ‘Stick to Football’ podcast by the English channel ‘The Overlap’, Northern Irish star Rory McIlroy shared his doubts regarding the long-term future of the LIV Golf league, funded by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF). McIlroy discussed his general stance on LIV Golf and explained why he has no personal connection to the league. He also touched upon the possibility of former PGA Tour players returning.
The five-time major champion and one of LIV Golf’s harshest critics since its inception in 2022 speculated that PIF might consider shutting down the league if it fails to turn a profit long-term. McIlroy stated, \”I don’t know, but if LIV can’t capture the audience’s enthusiasm after investing so much money, I don’t know how long they can sustain it.\”
Although LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil revealed in late October 2025 that the league had generated around half a billion euros in sponsorship over the past ten months, it remains unclear when profits might be realized. The ‘Money in Sport’ newsletter predicted in May 2025 that PIF investments could reach five billion US dollars by the end of 2025. In October, it was also disclosed that the league’s British branch recorded a total loss of 1.1 billion US dollars from its inception until the end of 2024, including 450 million US dollars in 2024 alone.
McIlroy: ‘I Don’t Like What LIV Golf Has Done to Our Sport’
\”I don’t like what LIV Golf has done to our sport because it caused a massive divide. Last time on this podcast, I said I might have judged the guys who went there too hastily, as not everyone is in the same position as me,\” McIlroy said. He added, \”If you’re offered double the money for the same work, it’s hard to say no.\”
He also believes LIV Golf hasn’t yet found lasting favor with fans and viewers but acknowledged the league has some positive aspects. Calling himself a \”traditionalist,\” McIlroy said this may limit his perspective, but he questioned LIV’s claims of being different, noting their change from 54 to 72 holes for world ranking points is just copying others. \”What’s really different — aside from the money?\” he asked.