Golf’s big split might finally be healing, and former US Open champion Graeme McDowell thinks that’s exactly what the sport needs right now.
The Northern Irishman, who’s been playing on LIV Golf since 2022, sees real hope in the ongoing talks between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. And he’s not alone.
What’s really got people talking is former President Trump’s recent involvement in the negotiations. It seems to have given things a fresh push forward.
"I’m really excited that things are going on to try and repair the damage that’s been done and bring the best players in the world back together more often," McDowell told BBC Sport Northern Ireland.
It’s pretty simple, really. Fans want to see the world’s best golfers competing against each other regularly. So do sponsors and TV networks.
New LIV Golf boss Scott O’Neil and PGA Tour player director Adam Scott have both hinted lately that a deal might be close.
But for McDowell, there’s something even more personal at stake.
The 45-year-old hasn’t played in a major championship since 2020. His move to LIV Golf, which doesn’t offer world ranking points, hasn’t helped.
Now he’s got his sights set on something special: The Open Championship is returning to his hometown of Portrush this July.
This isn’t just another tournament for McDowell. He’s such a local hero that there’s literally a hole named after him on the Valley Links course at Royal Portrush.
"With the Open being at Portrush this year, it cranks up the intensity a little bit higher for me," he says. "I’m looking all over the world to see where there might be an opportunity."
His first shot at qualifying comes in March at the Asian Tour’s International Series Macau event. Three spots are up for grabs there.
"I’ve got a busy enough six months coming up," McDowell admits. He’s tried and failed to qualify for majors in recent years, but this time feels different.
After all, how often does a golfer get the chance to play in their sport’s oldest championship on their home course?
