🚨⛳️❌ #NEW: Rory McIlroy comments on a potential deal for pro golf: “Look, I think it takes two to tango. So if one party is willing and ready and the other isn't, it sort of makes it tough.” Also added: “I don't think it's ever felt that close, but I don't, it doesn't feel like… pic.twitter.com/Nzc3fOPIxC
— NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) March 5, 2025
Rory McIlroy has downplayed the chances of a merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, stating that negotiations are “not any closer” to a resolution. Speaking ahead of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, the world number two expressed skepticism despite ongoing discussions.
PGA Tour and LIV Golf Merger: Talks Show Little Progress
Since its controversial launch in 2022, the Saudi-backed LIV Golf has reshaped professional golf by attracting top players like Jon Rahm, Brooks Koepka, and Bryson DeChambeau.
While discussions about the unification of the PGA Tour and LIV Golf began in June 2023, McIlroy indicated that little progress had been made over the past year.
“I don’t think it’s ever felt that close, but it doesn’t feel like it’s any closer,” McIlroy commented. Earlier talks involving PGA Tour officials, LIV Golf chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan, and even former U.S. President Donald Trump had fueled speculation, but McIlroy remains doubtful.
Does the PGA Tour Even Need a Deal?
While many golf fans long for a resolution that reunites the sport’s elite players, McIlroy questioned whether the PGA Tour truly requires a merger. “I think the narrative around golf would welcome a deal in terms of having the best players together again,” he said. “But I don’t think the PGA Tour needs a deal.”
McIlroy pointed to the PGA Tour’s strong television ratings and the development of TGL—a high-tech golf league he co-founded with Tiger Woods—as signs that golf’s dominant tour remains on solid ground.
‘It Takes Two to Tango’
One major roadblock appears to be the differing levels of interest between the negotiating parties. McIlroy explained that “if one party is willing and ready and the other isn’t, it makes it tough.”
While Tiger Woods recently voiced optimism that the divide could “heal quickly,” McIlroy’s remarks suggest that unity in professional golf is still far off.
A Crucial Decision Ahead of the Masters
Aside from the merger debate, McIlroy is also contemplating his competitive schedule ahead of the Masters Tournament in April. Currently, he is slated to play in just two events: the Arnold Palmer Invitational and the Players Championship—before Augusta.
However, he is considering adding another tournament. “I don’t like the idea of having three weeks off going into the Masters,” he admitted. Potential options include the Houston Open or the Valero Texas Open.
What’s Next for the Future of Golf?
With no imminent resolution, the divide between PGA Tour and LIV Golf remains a dominant storyline in the sport. Many had hoped early 2024 discussions could lead to a breakthrough, but McIlroy’s assessment suggests a long road ahead.
Will an agreement eventually be reached, or is professional golf destined to stay divided? With the Masters around the corner, McIlroy’s attention will shift to his quest for the one major title missing from his resume—but the broader question remains: What will it take to reunite professional golf?
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