Rory McIlroy raises doubts about the future of LIV Golf and discusses returns to the PGA Tour in a recent podcast.
Northern Irish star Rory McIlroy shared his skepticism about the long-term prospects of the LIV Golf league during a 60-minute episode of the \”Stick to Football\” podcast series by English channel The Overlap, released on Friday. Funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), McIlroy discussed his general stance on LIV Golf and explained why he personally does not relate to the league. He also touched on the possibility of former PGA Tour players returning to the tour.
The five-time major champion, a consistent critic of LIV Golf since its 2022 inception, speculated that PIF might consider ending the league altogether if it fails to generate profits in the long run. McIlroy said, ‘I don’t know, but if LIV can’t engage viewers and they have invested so much money without returns, I don’t see how they can keep it going.’
Despite LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil revealing in late October 2025 that the league secured about half a billion euros in sponsorships over the past ten months, the timeline for profitability remains uncertain. The ‘Money in Sport’ newsletter forecasted in May 2025 that PIF investments would reach five billion USD by the end of 2025. Additionally, the league’s UK branch reported a total loss of $1.1 billion between its start and the end of 2024, including $450 million 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 has caused a massive split. Last time on this podcast, I said I may have been too hasty judging the players who joined because not everyone is in the same position as me,’ McIlroy said. ‘When you are offered double the money for the same work, it’s hard to say no.’
McIlroy also believes LIV Golf has yet to find lasting appeal among fans, though he recognized some positive elements in the league. Identifying as a ‘traditionalist,’ he acknowledged his mindset might be limiting. He remarked, ‘They came in claiming they would be different, saying “We will be this, we will be that.” Even changing from 54 to 72 holes to earn world ranking points is just copying what others do.’ He added, ‘So what’s different – apart from the money?’