Striking a Saudi deal is best outcome for golf

PGA chief Jay wants to LIV in harmony but says finding a solution will take time

- NEIL McLEMAN

PGA TOUR boss Jay Monahan insisted striking a deal with the Saudi PIF is “the best outcome” for golf but warned: “It’s going to take time.”

A shock ceasefire in the bitter civil war between the PGA and DP World Tours and the owners of LIV Golf was announced on June 6 last year.

Since then a $1.5billion investmen thas been announced from the Strategic Sports Group – involving Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group – while Masters champion Jon Rahm has joined LIV.

SSG officials joined January talks with the Saudis led by PIF and Newcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan.

But speaking before the 50th Players Championship at Sawgrass,

Monahan could give no deadline – or few details.

He said: “I recently met with the governor of the PIF, Yasir Al-Rumayyan, and our negotiations are accelerating as we spend time together.

“While we have several key issues we still need to work through, we have a shared vision to quiet the noise and unlock golf ’s worldwide potential.