Rory McIlroy names biggest ‘stumbling block’ in ongoing LIV-PGA talks despite optimism over a deal emerging

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Ahead of the BMW PGA Championship, Rory McIlroy has been quizzed on the ongoing talks between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.

Last week, fresh talks took place in New York City as officials from both sides sought to end the 14-month standoff that has divided the professional game.

PGA Tour officials are optimistic as moves are made to reintegrate LIV Golf players back into the traditional tours.

McIlroy, who once staunchly opposed LIV’s presence, has now warmed to the idea of a merger. McIlroy wants a deal to happen, and the four-time major winner shared his thoughts ahead of the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Golf Club in Surrey.

Rory McIlroy details current roadblock in LIV-PGA Tour talks

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McIlroy initially reaffirmed that there is optimism about a deal being struck.

“Yeah, I believe so [there is optimism],” McIlroy said. “I wasn’t a part of those meetings, so I don’t — I may know a touch more than you do, but not a ton.”

The Northern Irishman, however, did highlight a potential roadblock in the Department of Justice.

“But yeah, as I said, I think one of the stumbling blocks is the Department of Justice, and I think trying to approach that from a collaborative standpoint seems to be the best way forward.

“So yeah, I think to me it seems like the people that are really making the decisions are all rowing in the same direction, which is a really good thing.

“And even if they are all rowing in the same direction, it still doesn’t mean that a deal may get done because it’s just a very complicated set of circumstances. But yeah, from what I hear, there’s optimism there, and that’s good to see.”

Lawyers have massively impacted the LIV-PGA Tour talks

Despite progress being made, legal wrangling has significantly slowed progress in recent months.

It’s believed that once talks conclude, lawyers are quick to get involved before reversing the process.

Of course, there’s big money involved, but 14 months down the line, surely the legal teams are at a stage where some lee-way must be made.

Nevertheless, positivity appears to be emerging after the latest round of talks; now, all those involved with the game will be desperate for a resolution once the LIV season concludes in Dallas.