The PGA Tour's recent deal with Strategic Sports Group has sparked a debate about the necessity of a potential agreement with Saudi Arabia's PIF. Rory McIlroy and Jordan Spieth had a phone call to discuss their differing opinions on the matter. McIlroy initially stated that the PIF's involvement is essential for the future of golf, while Spieth expressed the view that it may no longer be needed. Senator Blumenthal commended the PGA's decision to seek investment beyond Saudi Arabia's LIV Golf, indicating a shift in support for the organization.
At my hearing in July, I pushed the PGA to look beyond the sportwashing grips of Saudi Arabia’s LIV Golf for additional investment. I am glad they took my advice & pleased to see other investors help support this cherished American institution. https://t.co/ACycti3MFJ
🚨🤝⛳️ #NO OPTION — Rory McIlroy flips the script and says a deal with the PIF must happen: “Having PIF as your partner as opposed to not having them as your partner, I don't think is an option for the game of golf. I think they're committed to investing in golf and in the wider… https://t.co/zuiaaKABnl
🚨👀⛳️ #DIFFERENCE OF OPINION — Rory McIlroy says he and Jordan Spieth recently had a 1 hour phone call to clear the air on difference of opinion about the PIF’s involvement in the future of golf after Spieth said the PIF was no longer needed following the deal with SSG and… https://t.co/ZlXOvlnKiH
Now that the PGA Tour could have as much as $3 billion in its war chest, does it need Saudi money? https://t.co/iAaSLM01V6
Following the PGA Tour’s deal with Strategic Sports Group, a pressing question still stands: Does the Tour need to finish a much-discussed agreement with Saudi Arabia’s PIF? “I don’t think that’s needed.”