Stephen A. Smith Rips PGA Tour Over Possible LIV Golf Punishment
Stephen A. Smith criticized the PGA Tour for potentially punishing LIV Golf players who seek to return, arguing that the PGA's past treatment of players justified the creation of LIV. Reports indicate that LIV Golf's primary backer, the Saudi Public Investment Fund, may stop funding the league after 2026, raising concerns about its future. Amid uncertainty, some LIV players and agents are exploring returns to the PGA and DP World Tours, though re-entry could require requalification or face legal complications.
- ▪The Saudi Public Investment Fund, LIV Golf's main financial backer, reportedly plans to stop funding the league after the 2026 season.
- ▪LIV Golf has faced event postponements, shrinking schedules, and financial instability, prompting players to consider returning to the PGA Tour.
- ▪The PGA Tour's previous Returning Member Program was limited and may not be renewed, potentially forcing returning players to requalify through Q-School.
- ▪Stephen A. Smith argued that the PGA Tour's mistreatment of players led to LIV Golf's creation and that returning players should be welcomed, not punished.
- ▪Phil Mickelson stated in 2022 that Saudi funding provided leverage against what he described as the PGA Tour's coercive and manipulative practices.
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By Rowan Fisher-ShottonShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.According to multiple reports this week, LIV Golf’s primary financial engine, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), plans to stop funding the league after the 2026 season, putting its long-term viability in serious doubt.The league, which has already burned through billions to lure elite talent, is now scrambling for investors while facing shrinking schedules, postponed events, and growing uncertainty among players.Amid the turmoil, multiple LIV players and their agents have reportedly reached out to the PGA Tour and DP World Tour about potential returns.However, it won’t be simple.
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