sports

LIV golf stars face career limbo with Saudi investment expected to end in 2026

LIV chief’s rallying email to staff did not refer to 2027

LIV golf stars face career limbo with Saudi investment expected to end in 2026

TL;DR

  • Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) is expected to withdraw backing for LIV Golf after 2026.
  • The future is uncertain for LIV Golf players, with potential difficulties in securing future careers.
  • Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm may have a pathway back to the PGA Tour, but others' futures are less clear.
  • The PIF may use force majeure to exit contracts due to the Middle East crisis and a shift in Saudi sporting focus.
  • LIV Golf's chief executive, Scott O'Neil, sent an email assuring staff of the season's continuity but made no commitments beyond 2026.
  • LIV Golf has reportedly spent over $5 billion of PIF money since its inception in 2021.
  • The DP World Tour may be more willing to re-engage with LIV players.
  • Women's golf in Europe could be significantly impacted if Saudi Arabia diverts attention away from the sport.
  • The PGA Tour's relationship with the DP World Tour is a complicating factor.