The merger between the PGA Tour and PIF is still the main topic on the golf scene, but it seems that this story could take a big turn. Although the leaders of both parties spoke openly about the merger, optimistic that the agreement will be finalized in the coming months, things could go in a quite different path.
Both sides have been negotiating in the White House in recent months, but no agreement has yet been reached. However, according to British media reports, LIV Golf plans to buy the famous Wentworth Golf Club in England, once the headquarters of the DP World Tour.
DP World and the PGA Tour have had great relations for years, and if LIV officials were to make such a move, it could create an additional conflict with the PGA Tour.
The current owners of Wentworth are the Chinese investment company Reignwood Group, and if reports are to be believed, the owners of this company have no plans to sell Wentworth. However, LIV officials do not want to stop there, targeting the Centurion Golf Club, which is located near London.
While the negotiations are ongoing, it is difficult to give a real answer as to whether they will succeed in this plan.
Reactions
Golf experts and analysts believe that the Saudis want to get the PGA Tour’s attention regarding Wentworth, sending a clear message to the PGA leaders that a merger is probably the best solution for everyone.
Whether this pressure will bear fruit or whether the leaders of the biggest Tour will not have a concrete reaction remains to be seen.
It is clear that money controls a lot of things, and in an environment where you have such a financially strong party, it is difficult to really assess what is the best thing for you.
PGA officials would have to think carefully about two options: Finalizing the agreement, even if they are at a loss in some fields, or focusing on their story, and looking for sponsors who can financially strengthen them.
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