Rory McIlroy is tired of the slow negotiations between the Saudi PIF and PGA Tour.
Jay Monahan and Yasir Al-Rumayyan shook hands on June 6, 2023, but there’s been no visible progress since then. Despite Monahan’s assurances that talks are ongoing, nothing seems to be moving forward.
As things drag on, McIlroy expressed his frustration and warned that if a deal isn’t reached soon, it might not happen at all. The PGA Tour doesn’t seem to be in any rush as they figure out how the $3 billion investment from the Strategic Sports Group will impact everything.
McIlroy cautioned that if both sides don’t find a way forward quickly, the PIF might walk away from the table. “I think if it doesn’t happen soon, then honestly, I think PIF and the Saudis are going to have to look at alternative options,” he said after round one of the Tour Championship in Atlanta. “That’s probably the next step if something doesn’t get done.”
Prolonged Negotiations Impacting Golf
Even though there’s no financial rush for the PGA Tour to finalize a deal, McIlroy believes this ongoing split is hurting golf as a whole. He mentioned that fans must be frustrated because this division means they’re not seeing the best possible product on display.
“I think anyone that cares about golf has to be frustrated,” he added. “We’re not putting forward our best product because of this split.”
He pointed out events like the US Open where he lost to Bryson DeChambeau but acknowledged how exciting it was for fans. Such thrilling moments should happen more than just four times a year.
Fans might feel disappointed with how long these talks are taking.
In short, Rory wants everyone involved to find a solution soon so golf can thrive again. What do you think? Should they hurry up?
