Scottie Scheffler Speaks Out on LIV Golf Merger Stalemate
Scottie Scheffler, one of the PGA Tour’s most dominant players, recently shared his thoughts on the ongoing standoff between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. When asked about the fractured state of professional golf and whether a merger was on the horizon, his response was direct: “That was their choice; not mine.”
It’s been nearly two years since discussions first began about a possible agreement between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which financially backs LIV Golf. Yet, there has been little progress and many unanswered questions, creating an atmosphere of tension and speculation among players and fans alike.
Different Perspectives Within the Golf Community
Adam Scott, who serves on the PGA Tour’s Player Advisory Council, commented earlier in the year that part of the reason for the lack of progress is that both tours operate very differently. This difference in structure and approach has complicated any potential merger.
Rory McIlroy, one of the most vocal figures on this issue, indirectly pointed out that both sides need to be willing participants. “It takes two to tango,” he remarked, suggesting that one side’s reluctance may be the primary roadblock.
Scheffler has consistently emphasized that it’s not the PGA Tour holding things up. He advised reporters and fans to seek answers from LIV Golf players instead, saying, “If we want to figure out why the game of golf is not back together, go ask those guys.”
Phil Mickelson, now one of the leading figures in LIV Golf, has expressed a more relaxed view about the merger, suggesting it’s not essential. From his perspective, LIV has already made significant contributions to golf, especially financially and creatively. Former LIV CEO Greg Norman, meanwhile, continues to express resentment over the backlash faced by LIV players, calling the treatment they received “disgusting.”
On the PGA Tour’s end, Commissioner Jay Monahan has shown some openness to incorporating aspects of LIV Golf into the traditional tour. However, he remains cautious and insists that any such changes must not weaken the PGA Tour’s integrity or momentum.
Scheffler’s View: LIV Players Must Take Responsibility
During a press conference at the Charles Schwab Challenge, Scheffler once again emphasized that LIV players, not PGA Tour members, should be the ones working to bring both sides together. “We had a tour where we all played together,” he said. “The guys that left, it’s their responsibility to bring the tours back together.”
Despite the drama surrounding the merger, Scheffler remains unaffected. His stellar performances speak volumes. He recently finished fourth at the Masters and went on to win the PGA Championship, reinforcing his position as the top golfer on the PGA Tour.
Even though Scheffler distances himself from the politics of the split, he has admitted to missing the competition that came from facing off against some of LIV’s biggest stars. “They got some pretty good players on their tour,” he said, acknowledging the talent LIV has attracted.
LIV Golf boasts 14 major champions who together hold 28 titles. Notable names include Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka, and Jon Rahm. Rahm, in particular, was one of Scheffler’s fiercest rivals before his departure from the PGA Tour in late 2023.
Scheffler expressed his respect and admiration for Rahm, reminiscing about their past matchups and sharing that he misses their competitive battles. “One of the great joys of my career is going up against Jon,” he said. “We had some great battles in the Ryder Cup and on tour.”
What’s Next for Golf’s Future?
While Scheffler isn’t deeply involved in the merger talks, his stance is clear: LIV players made the decision to leave, and it’s on them to help mend the divide if they wish to reunite the sport.
The question remains—will both sides find common ground? As fans, media, and players continue to speculate, professional golf remains split, with its stars shining on separate stages.