Four months after bombshell reports suggested the PIF and PGA Tour were nearing an agreement, fresh rumours have emerged suggesting the reunification of professional golf could soon happen.
Jay Monahan revealed that discussions with Donald Trump have brought the two parties closer to a deal, with the President having hosted LIV events at his courses. Meanwhile, Tiger Woods played a round with Trump last Sunday in Florida.
The latest news comes after the PIF and PGA Tour were reportedly nearing a $1bn agreement in November. Currently, LIV Golf players are banned from competing in PGA Tour events.
With professional golf splintered, the overarching feeling is that reunification must occur, and Sky Sports pundit Rich Beem believes there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Rich Beem makes LIV Golf merger prediction
Speaking on the latest Sky Sports Golf Podcast, Beem suggested there is a “sense” a resolution is near.
“I think it has had that sense for a little while. It almost feels like there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Especially with Monahan and Adam Scott going up to Washington DC and meeting with the President, who is an avid golfer,” Beem said.
“He has had many LIV events at his courses throughout the years. I think him, just being a fan of the game, would like to see the best come back and play together.
“I think because of the relationship he has had and now he’s President once again, there is probably a little bit more he can do. But I still think it will be interesting to see how it plays out, and I still think it is going to take a few extra years for everything to assimilate. I think it could take anything from two to four years now, but it’s heading in the right direction.”
Rich Beem reacts to R&A’s LIV Golf decision
LIV Golf has also made moves within the major championship scene in recent weeks. The USGA confirmed the US Open would provide LIV with a direct route into the championship, and the R&A has now followed suit with The Open.
The leading LIV Golf player in the top five of the standings who is not otherwise exempt will be offered a route into the 2025 event at Royal Portrush.
Beem also reacted to the news and admitted he had no issue with the decision. “I’m fine with that,” Beem added.
“I have no issue with any of the guys who play on the LIV Tour. I think we can all understand why. They are all still great players, and to reward somebody for having an exemplary year with an exemption to the US Open or the Open Championship, I think it’s well founded.
“If you look at the depth pool and the talent that is on LIV, it’s there. We can’t deny that whatsoever. Bryson DeChambeau, reigning US Open Champion, and Brooks Koepka, PGA Champion, while on LIV, these guys can flat-out play. There’s no doubt about it. And those exemptions, I think it helps.”
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