Scott O’Neil was named LIV Golf’s new CEO at the end of 2024, replacing Greg Norman, who stepped away from the role he took up nearly three years ago.
O’Neil, who has over 25 years of experience managing global sports brands and has held leadership positions at some of the USA’s most significant sporting institutions, is viewed by many as the business head required to take LIV Golf to the next level.
One of O’Neil’s first tasks is to aid the ongoing talks between Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and the PGA Tour. There is renewed optimism that President Donald Trump’s involvement will help end the current divide within professional golf, which was caused by LIV Golf’s emergence in 2022.
PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan has been central to negotiations, and O’Neil believes he has an excellent relationship with the 54-year-old.
Now, speaking ahead of this week’s Genesis Invitational, Monahan has disclosed what he knows about O’Neil and his presence in the sports business world.
Jay Monahan’s relationship with Scott O’Neil
“Listen, Scott — Scott’s had a really strong career in the sports industry. I think you see his pedigree. I’ve gotten to know him,” Monahan said.
“I’d say a lot of the people that I have a lot of respect for that are in this industry think very highly of Scott. I’ve gotten to know him through the years.
“He reached out to me the first day that he took on his role, and I think if you just look at his success in the past, I think he’s nothing but additive and is going to be an important part of this as we go forward.”
PGA Tour still hunting new CEO
The PGA Tour is also looking for a new CEO to work alongside Monahan ahead of what could be a massive year for the future of professional golf.
During an end-of-year message, Monahan confirmed that he’s on the lookout for a new business mind to join the Tour’s hierarchy.
Now, the commissioner has provided an update on the search’s progress. “Yeah, so the search committee has been formed,” Monahan added.
“We’ve met on several occasions. We have some great candidates, like some really good candidates. In terms of timing, these things take time. Unfortunately, I keep repeating that. But I’m excited about where we are, and there will be more to come on that front. That committee, of which I’m a member, is pretty active.”
Given the level of detail involved in the protracted negotiations with the PIF, elite-level business heads are clearly required to help find a resolution that benefits all parties.
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