The framework agreement between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf shocked the sport back in June, and four-time major champion Ernie Els believes Jay Monahan wronged by negotiating with PIF.
Ernie Els, the former World No. 1, has called for the removal of PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan from his position due to the controversial merger with LIV Golf.
Just a few weeks ago, the PGA Tour and LIV Golf faced a significant divide when Jon Rahm, a prominent golfer, decided to join the breakaway tour supported by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. Rahm’s move, which could be worth up to £450 million, was a major victory for LIV Golf and posed a challenge to the PGA Tour’s dominance.
In a surprising turn of events back in June, LIV Golf and the PGA Tour agreed to merge, aiming to bridge the gap in the golfing world. However, this merger faced strong opposition due to the PIF’s questionable human rights record, with the PGA Tour and others raising concerns. The merger announcement left many players feeling disillusioned.
With the merger, the ongoing legal dispute between the two tours will be put on hold as they strive to coexist as a unified entity. A new company, yet to be named, will be formed through a signed agreement that combines the commercial operations and rights of both the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, alongside the DP World Tour.
The news of the merger caused quite a stir in the sports world during the summer. Els is clearly frustrated with Monahan’s involvement in the agreement. According to Els, if LIV had been established during his playing days, Monahan would not have taken the initiative to negotiate.
Els expressed his discontent, stating, “If this had happened back in my prime, there’s no way he would be involved. Absolutely no way. And the board needs to make some changes. You can’t just do something like this. I’m sorry, but it’s just not right.”
He emphasized the importance of communication and transparency, saying, “Talk to us, let us know your plans for negotiation. Don’t just act independently as a board member and expect us all to agree to the deal. You’re impacting people’s lives and the professional game. It’s just really unfortunate.”
Els also shared his thoughts on Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the PIF governor, and questioned the authenticity of the team aspect in LIV Golf. He remarked, “I know Yasir, I know some of those Saudi guys. They have a genuine love for the game. But this LIV format feels more like circus golf. It’s not something I support.”
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