It represents the most stunning deal in the history of professional golf. The decision to merge the PGA Tour with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) caught everyone off guard - including the players and sent shockwaves through the sport.
The new agreement will see the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and LIV Golf come together to form "a new, collectively owned" entity exclusively funded by the PIF, ending a tense conflict which has lasted the best part of two years.
But how did a merger that seemed almost impossible actually happen and what does it mean for the future of the three tours involved and the Ryder Cup?
The following pages will answer all your burning questions about the PGA Tour's U-turn and the controversy of the PIF..
Who brokered the deal?
We understand Amanda Staveley, a shareholder in Newcastle United FC, and Jimmy Dunne, a powerbroker and close confidant to many top players, were key figures in finally getting the PGA Tour and PIF around the table.
The initial meeting was between PIF Governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan and PGA Tour board members Jimmy Dunne and Ed Herlihy. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan then joined the negotiations at the second meeting and had two lunches with Al-Rumayyan in London, as well as a round of golf at Beaverbrook.
Only a handful of people, and no players, were ever involved in the process and there were just seven weeks between the initial meeting and the deal being finalised on June 5, less than 24 hours before it was publicly announced.
What they say
This story is from the September 2023 edition of Golf Asia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 2023 edition of Golf Asia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
PLAYING ALONG THE LINES
ClearPath Alignment now adorns the latest TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x Stripe golf balls.
NG CONTINUES TO BLAZE A TRAIL
Sydnie Ng's victory in the Singapore Junior Masters B Division Girls boosts her potential.
DESCENTE ON THE ASCENT
Descente and FILA Golf gives the renovated The Shop at Laguna National Golf Resort Club a trendy boost.
DIVINE PLEASURES FOR A CAUSE
Christian media ministry TWR Asia finds charitable connections through golf.
TO "D" OR NOT TO "D"?
If you chose “D”, you are right and you would be joining millions of people around the world who are choosing “D” as the one necessary supplement they must include in their daily diet.
QUOTIDIAN LUXURY
Audi's new Q4 e-tron offers everyday comfort and performance through sustainable rides.
A RACE LIKE NO OTHER
Join us as we take a front row seat at Le Mans, one of the greatest races in the world, followed by an exclusive tour of Ferrari's automated factory in Maranello, Italy.
CELEBRATING THE MODERN WOMAN
Patek Philippe's Twenty-4 collection has come a long way since its inception at the turn of the millennium, and this year's anniversary edition is a sign of the times.
THE PRIVILEGE OF MEMBERSHIP
Dragon Golf International offers its members in Singapore with access to top courses around the world. Founder and Managing Director Neil Douglas talks about why it may be the answer to the future of golf travel.
THE LURE OF THE LAKESIDE
Banyan Group's massive new undertaking in Phuket rides on soaring international demand for homes on the island
