YouTube star Rick Shiels has signed for LIV Golf after teasing fans over a potential announcement.
Shiels, who has 2.9 million subscribers, is one of YouTube’s original content creators and will now be working at every single LIV event, filming videos with some of the breakaway league’s best players.
Shiels has become LIV’s first content creator signing. This news follows the PGA Tour’s decision to form the Creator Council after the success of the Creator Classic at East Lake.
The Englishman released a video on his YouTube channel to explain all – and it’s safe to say his LIV Golf move has divided opinion amongst his fanbase.
Golf fans react to Rick Shiels’ LIV Golf move
The financial details of Shiels’ LIV move are yet to be disclosed, although it’s likely the money involved is potentially life-changing.
And many of Shiels’ fans are fully behind his decision to sign for LIV.
“People are complaining!!!! This is a dream for all of us who love golf. Congratulations, Rick and the team,” one fan wrote under Shiels’ announcement video.
Another added: “This is no different to the likes of Grant and good good being signed with club manufacturers. This is how they access pros. This means he can continue with the hit channel and attract top golfers for the series we have enjoyed. Congrats, Rick. I am looking forward to what’s to come!”
“I’d say it’s pretty safe to say almost anyone would do the same for tens of millions of dollars. This man just secured generational wealth for his family. Not to mention, it’s not like he’s left PGA tour. Congrats Rick! Look forward to upcoming content,” this fan said.
While another wrote: “Fair play to LIV. They’re gonna have an ambassador that gets more views than their own product, and they’re not embarrassed about that. At least there might be something worth watching from LIV now.”
However, some fans were critical of Shiels’ decision. “For a guy who’s complained about golf being all about money, signing with the app about money league is hilarious,” this fan said.
Another added: “After all that talk on the pod about how LIV wasn’t his cup of tea, everyone has a price!”
“Hope you’ve deleted all the old negative posts about LIV,” this fan said.
Finally, this comment read: “So sad to see. Great channel over the years, but he sold his soul to LIV. It’s disappointing. It’s all about the money—just like all those LIV players.”
What will Rick Shiels do with LIV Golf?
So, what exactly will Shiels be doing with LIV Golf? Let’s examine the details.
The 38-year-old will attend all 14 LIV Golf events and continue to produce his much-loved content. Shiels’ ‘Break 75’ is making a return. The Englishman will play all the LIV courses in tournament conditions the week of each event.
His ten-shot challenge will also take place. Typically, Shiels starts at ten-under and attempts to beat a professional. He’s previously taken on Ian Poulter, Sergio Garcia, and Bryson DeChambeau.
New content includes a five-man scramble. Shiels and a LIV Golf team will play a six-hole scramble and try to shoot as low a score as possible.
Finally, Shiels will also host a new two-on-two knockout league on his channel. Each player and caddie will be mic’d, and the YouTube star will act as host.
Given the hard work and dedication Shiels has put in over the years, it’s difficult to begrudge him this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
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