Tiger Woods’ former coach responds with 10 words as LIV’s merger with DP World Tour draws closer

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Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has now entered discussions with the DP World Tour in a bid to end the current divide within professional golf.

Reports suggest a merger would allow DP World Tour and LIV Golf players to compete between both competitions.

A $1bn agreement between the PIF and the PGA Tour was reportedly near earlier this month; however, it remains to be seen whether any progress has been made. Before the DP World Tour season concluded in Dubai, Rory McIlroy admitted he had heard nothing about an imminent deal.

Now, it appears the PIF is exploring other avenues, and an agreement with the DP World Tour is more likely, given several LIV Golf players still compete on the traditional circuit.

The DP World Tour has always allowed breakaway league players to compete as long as outstanding fines and sanctions are dealt with. If a deal between the two parties does emerge, the Wentworth-based authority will likely have to refrain from handing out any more financial penalties.

It’s certainly an interesting scenario and perhaps an indication that the Saudis are losing patience with the PGA Tour. That’s a view shared by Tiger Woods’ former coach, Hank Haney, who has reacted to the news on social media.

Hank Haney reacts to DP World Tour-LIV Golf merger talks

Taking to X on Wednesday, November 28, Haney appeared to suggest the PGA Tour may have missed its chance to reach an agreement with the PIF.

“This seems like a case of you snooze you lose,” Haney wrote.

Haney is seemingly a supporter of LIV Golf, and the American was extremely vocal after reports suggested Jon Rahm was unhappy with his decision to join the Saudi-backed venture.

• READ MORE: Hank Haney reacts to footage of Anthony Kim’s swing as ex-LIV man shares update

DP World Tour agreement feels more likely

Given the length of time that has passed without an agreement between the PIF and PGA Tour, the Saudis’ DP World Tour move is smart.

The DP World Tour needs investment, which means a merger agreement could work well for both parties. LIV players will be able to gain world ranking points without being punished, and the DP World Tour will see some of its biggest names return to the fold: Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood and Henrik Stenson, for example.

The European circuit was at its brilliant best during the autumnal stretch of the season. Still, by adding one or two more recognisable names, the product will garner even more attention.