Despite ongoing discussions between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, a full reunification of professional golf seems far off, according to prominent players from both sides.
McIlroy and DeChambeau skeptical about PGA-LIV merger
Speaking at the CNBC CEO Council Forum, Rory McIlroy, a long-time advocate for reunifying professional golf, expressed doubt about a resolution anytime soon. “I think unification would be better for the game overall,” McIlroy said. “But given everything that has happened over the past few years, I think it’s going to be very difficult to achieve.”
LIV Golf star Bryson DeChambeau echoed the sentiment in a recent FOX News interview. The two-time U.S. Open champion believes both sides are entrenched in their positions. “There are too many demands and not enough concessions on both sides,” he said, adding that it will take time for real progress to be made.
Financial gains highlight the need for unity
While the split in professional golf has caused controversy, one undeniable benefit has been financial. McIlroy noted back in February that both sides have profited and should now focus on reuniting the sport. “Whether you stayed on the PGA Tour or left, we’ve all benefited,” he said at the Genesis Invitational. “We’re playing for $20 million this week—that wouldn’t have happened without LIV. We need to move on, stop looking back, and do what’s best for the game moving forward.”
Although February showed signs of progress, talks stalled again in March. Since then, little has changed. LIV Golf continues to push for legitimacy, aiming to award Official World Golf Ranking points and transitioning to a 72-hole format.
Despite the current stalemate, DeChambeau remains hopeful. “I don’t want to speak for others, but I believe the game will improve over time,” he told FOX News. “This is a positive disruption, and it will take time for things to settle. Ultimately, I think it will be good for the game.”