Rory McIlroy expresses doubts about LIV Golf’s future and discusses former players returning to the PGA Tour in a new podcast.
Northern Irish star Rory McIlroy voiced his skepticism about the long-term future of the LIV Golf League during over 60 minutes on the ‘Stick to Football’ podcast series by the English channel ‘The Overlap,’ released Friday. The league is financed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). McIlroy shared his general stance on LIV Golf and explained why he has no personal connection to the league, also addressing the possibility of former PGA Tour players returning.
The five-time major champion, one of the sharpest critics of LIV Golf since its inception in 2022, speculated that the PIF might consider shutting down the newly founded league if it fails to be profitable in the long run. McIlroy said, ‘I don’t know, but if LIV can’t excite viewers and they’ve invested so much money into this project without returns, I don’t see how long they can keep it going.’
Despite LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil announcing in late October 2025 that the league had secured roughly half a billion euros in sponsorships over the past ten months, it remains unclear when profits might start. The ‘Money in Sport’ newsletter predicted in May 2025 that PIF’s investments would reach $5 billion by the end of 2025. Additionally, the UK branch of the league reportedly recorded a total loss of $1.1 billion between its launch and the end of 2024, with $450 million lost 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 such a massive divide. Last time on this podcast, I said maybe I judged the guys who went there a bit too quickly, since not everyone’s in the same situation as me,’ McIlroy commented, adding, ‘When you’re offered double the money for the same work, it’s kind of hard to say no.’
McIlroy also believes LIV Golf has so far failed to find lasting appeal among fans and viewers, though he acknowledged some positive aspects within the league. Calling himself a ‘traditionalist,’ he suggested this might limit his perspective. He said, ‘They came in saying, ‘We’ll be different, we’ll do this, we’ll do that.’ Even the change from 54 to 72 holes to get world ranking points is just copying what everyone else does.’ He added, ‘So what’s actually different – besides the money?’
Rory McIlroy on LIV Golf Returnees and Ryder Cup 2025
Regarding the potential return of former LIV players to the PGA Tour, such as Brooks Koepka after four years with LIV Golf, McIlroy remained composed: ‘I think they’ve already faced the consequences,’ he said. ‘