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2w ago

McIlroy Says PGA–LIV Reunification Unlikely as LIV Spending Widens the Divide

McIlroy cites heavy spending alongside looming contract renewals as barriers to reunifying men's golf.

Mar 14, 2025; Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA; Rory Mcllroy eyes his putt on the eighteenth green during the second round of The Players Championship golf tournament at TPC Sawgrass. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-Imagn Images
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11/27/25

Overview

  • Speaking at CNBC's CEO Council Forum, Rory McIlroy said a deal to reunite the PGA Tour and LIV Golf looks unlikely in the near term due to what he called LIV's 'irrational' spending.
  • He warned many LIV player contracts are nearing expiry and argued the league has already spent about $5–6 billion and may need a similar outlay just to maintain its position.
  • Reuters-cited figures show LIV has accumulated more than $1.4 billion in losses through its first four years, with roughly $400 million paid out in prize money in 2024 alone.
  • LIV plans to shift to 72-hole events in 2026 as it seeks Official World Golf Ranking recognition, while Reuters reports Dustin Johnson has a new deal and Bryson DeChambeau is expected to recommit.
  • DeChambeau separately said the sides are too far apart for a near-term resolution, and McIlroy expressed greater confidence in the PGA Tour's direction under CEO Brian Rolapp two-plus years after the 2023 framework agreement.