The DP World Tour has turned down LIV Golf’s offer to settle fines and let their players compete without penalties.
In August, officials from both sides met to discuss the proposals, according to Bob Harig from Sports Illustrated.
LIV Golf suggested paying a £6m settlement fee to boost DP World Tour purses and promised not to schedule tournaments that conflict with major DP events. They also proposed an exemption category for DP players in Asian Tour events.
During the 2023 Masters at Augusta National, it was announced that the DP World Tour had won its legal battle against LIV golfers. This victory didn’t allow them to ban LIV golfers outright but did give them the power to impose fines and suspensions for breaking tournament rules. Some LIV golfers have since played on the DP World Tour, like Thomas Pieters at the Soudal Open, but only after settling their fines.
Impact on Future Competitions:
European LIV golfers aiming for the 2025 Ryder Cup must play at least four DP World Tour events yearly beyond the Majors. Jon Rahm, who joined LIV in December, is one of those affected and would usually be a top pick for the Ryder Cup team.
After participating in the Olympics , Rahm still needs three more appearances this year on the DP World Tour. He could pay his outstanding fines or appeal them as he has done along with Tyrrell Hatton.
Fans might think this whole situation is really complicated and unfair for some players.
Rahm plans to play in upcoming events like Open de Espana, Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, and Andalucia Masters if his appeal is successful. However, it’s unclear when his appeal will be heard or if he’ll make it to the Ryder Cup if things don’t go his way due to last year’s legal ruling by the DP World Tour.
At LIV Golf Chicago, Rahm expressed his frustration: “I’m not a big fan of the fines… I don’t intend to pay them.” The DP World Tour explained they rejected LIV’s proposal because they believe all stakeholders should work together for a better solution for golf’s future.
Negotiations are ongoing between PGA Tour and Saudi Public Investment Fund regarding how LIV Golf can coexist with established tours moving forward. The close relationship between PGA Tour and DP World Tour was cited as a key reason why LIV’s proposal was declined.
LIV Golf chose not to comment on this matter.
What do you think about all these twists?
