AusLeisure

Division in the world of golf appears to be over with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour agreeing to merge with Saudi Arabian-backed circuit LIV Golf.

Announced yesterday, the landmark agreement to merge and form a commercial entity to unify golf includes an agreement to end all pending litigation between the parties

Additionally, the three organisations said in a joint news release that they will work cooperatively to allow a process for any players registered with LIV Golf to reapply for PGA Tour and DP World Tour (formerly known as the European Tour) membership following the 2023 season.

Ending an acrimonious split in the sport, the surprise announcement comes after a period of unprecedented disruption in the men's game following the launch of LIV with the PGA and DP World Tours having seen some of their best players move to the new circuit.

Making the announcement Jay Monahan, Commissioner of the PGA Tour, golf's leading circuit, stated “after two years of disruption and distraction, this is a historic day for the game we all know and love.”

DP World Tour Chief Executive, Keith Pelley added “this is a momentous day - to partner in this new entity is energising and exciting.”

Bankrolled by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) and with the former world number one Greg Norman as its figurehead, the LIV Golf series has been criticised for being a vehicle for the country to attempt to improve its reputation in the face of criticism of its human rights record.

The announcement also includes provision for PIF to make a capital investment into the new entity to facilitate its growth and success.

PIF Governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan went on to note “(this) is a very exciting day for this special game and the people it touches around the world.

"We are proud to partner with the PGA Tour to leverage PIF's unparalleled success and track record of unlocking value and bringing innovation and global best practices to business and sectors worldwide."

The merger will see Al-Rumayyan serve as Chairman of the new commercial entity while Monahan will be Chief Executive.

Advising that a "comprehensive evaluation" will now take place as to how best to integrate the tours, Monahan added "this transformational partnership recognises the immeasurable strength of the PGA Tour's history, legacy and pro-competitive model and combines with it the DP World Tour and LIV - including the team golf concept - to create an organisation that will benefit players, partners and fans.”

The rival LIV Golf circuit launched in 2022 and lured some big-name players away from the rival circuits with staggering sums of money in 54-hole events that feature no cuts and paydays for every golfer.

Among the more popular players who made the move to LIV Golf are Hall of Fame golfer Phil Mickelson, former world number one Dustin Johnson, reigning PGA Championship winner Brooks Koepka and Australian Cameron Smith.

Norman, who has been a divisive figurehead as Chief Executive of LIV Golf, was not mentioned during Tuesday's announcement.

The next event of LIV's second season is due to take place on 30th June at Valderrama, Spain.

Image credit: Shutterstock.

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