Scottie Scheffler Challenges Media: Ask LIV Players Why Golf Isn’t Reunified

The merger drama between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf remains in limbo, with no deal in sight after the initial bombshell announcement back on June 6, 2023. While fans and players alike wait for some clarity, golf stars are starting to speak out about the seemingly endless stalemate.

Rory McIlroy recently suggested that the responsibility lies with those who left for LIV Golf, stating that "it takes two to tango." Reigning Masters champion Scottie Scheffler echoed McIlroy’s sentiments earlier this week, but with a sharper edge.

"I wish some of those guys had stayed, but at the end of the day, they made their choice," Scheffler said. "They knew the consequences of that decision, and I’m not here to change their minds. I hold no ill will toward any of those guys that left. They did what they wanted to do, and I can’t control their life."

Scheffler didn’t mince words when addressing why golf remains divided: "If we want to figure out why the game of golf is not back together, go ask those guys. Go to wherever they are playing this week and figure out when the game is going to come back together." Ouch.

Meanwhile, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan has credited former President Donald Trump as the facilitator in the ongoing discussions between the two organizations. Trump’s enthusiasm for the sport and influence has reportedly brought some momentum to the table. "President Trump is a lifelong golf fan," Monahan said, "and his involvement has made the prospect of reunification very real." Trump himself has expressed optimism, saying, "They’re gonna have to get together...a deal will ultimately happen. I think it will happen pretty quickly. It would be nice to see the best golfers play against each other."

As discussions continue, Monahan has floated ideas about integrating LIV Golf elements into the PGA Tour’s platform and even suggested a future role for Public Investment Fund governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan on the PGA Tour’s board. That’s certainly one way to shake up tradition.

For now, fans are left with a fragmented sport, waiting for a resolution that may still be months—or years—away. One thing’s clear: the golf world isn’t short on drama.