Bryson DeChambeau probably assumed that he would be back playing in PGA Tour events by this stage of the year when a merger appeared to be imminent early on in 2025.
Of course, it is well over two years since the framework agreement was signed between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf‘s owners the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia.
And early on this year, it appeared that a deal was on the verge of getting across the line. The two sides met at the White House, while Tiger Woods said a merger was close while at the Genesis Invitational.
Which LIV golfer do you most want to see return to the PGA Tour?
There were even reports that LIV players could be in the field for The Players Championship.
Bryson DeChambeau comments on the chances of a merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf
However, as 2026 looms, the game appears to be as far away from reunification as it was before the framework agreement was signed.
No talks are taking place between the two tours. And soon enough, plans will start to be made for the 2027 schedules on both sides of the divide.
One player who is clearly hugely disappointed with the situation is Bryson DeChambeau. Speaking to FOX, DeChambeau suggested that he is desperate for a resolution.
However, he is extremely pessimistic, as things stand.
“Man, I wish something major would happen, but I don’t think it’s going to in the immediate future. I think there are too many wants on both sides and not enough gives on the other,” DeChambeau said. “We’re just too far apart on a lot of things. It’s going to take some time, but ultimately, I do think the game of golf will grow internationally. Scarcity will become more prevalent, which I think is good for players’ health and longevity. Honestly, for the professional sport, scarcity is very important.
“I think the R&A recognizes that, and I do think the PGA Tour recognizes that. It’s moving more toward that model. I won’t speak for anybody, but I think there will be improvements for the game as time goes on. It’s positive disruption, and it’ll take time to let the water settle and make a perfect scenario where we all come back together. Ultimately, I think it’ll be good for the game over time.”
The PGA Tour events Bryson DeChambeau hopes to play again after joining LIV Golf
DeChambeau certainly appears to be someone who respects the traditions of the game more than most. His knowledge of the sport’s history is extremely impressive.
So it is no surprise that he has previously expressed a hope to play in a number of marquee PGA Tour events again.
“I would love to play the heritage events. Travelers has always been a great event, the RBC Heritage, the Arnold Palmer, Mr. Nicklaus’ event [the Memorial Tournament], Riviera and the Rocket Mortgage Classic. Probably won’t be too many, but it’ll be good to be back out there,” he said, as reported by Golf Digest in 2023.
Unfortunately for DeChambeau, it appears that it is going to be some time before he gets that opportunity again as neither side seems to be in a rush to return to the negotiating table.
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