McIlroy questions LIV Golf stewardship as league navigates post-PIF uncertainty

Rory McIlroy has renewed his criticism of LIV Golf, asserting that the PGA Tour would have managed the league’s funding more effectively. Speaking ahead of the BMW Championship in St. Louis, the four-time major champion stated that he remains firmly on the side of the PGA Tour, describing it as the best place to play professional golf.

McIlroy’s comments coincide with LIV Golf concluding its 2026 season in Indianapolis. The league is currently navigating significant structural challenges following the announcement by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) that it would cease funding the organisation after the 2026 campaign. The PIF had reportedly invested more than $5 billion in the league since its inception.

In response to the financial withdrawal, LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil indicated that the league is pursuing a "LIV 2.0" vision. O’Neil confirmed that a new investor has been secured and that players met with this individual on Tuesday night, although the investor’s identity remains undisclosed. The league has not provided specific details regarding the terms of this new funding arrangement.

The 2026 season has been marked by operational difficulties, including multiple lawsuits and the cancellation of two tournaments. Among the cancelled events was the season-ending team championship in Michigan. Reports suggest the league has been operating on loans for several months, with some players allegedly unpaid from the Bedminster tournament in New Jersey.

O’Neil suggested that there is a sense among golf leadership to come together for the good of the sport, though he explicitly excluded the PGA Tour and its new CEO, Brian Rolapp, from this group. McIlroy maintained that LIV Golf has never been a good thing for the game, questioning whether the league has brought value to the sport.

Speculation continues regarding potential player movements for the 2027 season. Jon Rahm is reportedly open to leaving LIV Golf for the PGA Tour or DP World Tour, while Bryson DeChambeau’s current contract is set to expire. Scottie Scheffler, who recently won the FedEx St. Jude Championship, indicated that playing against LIV Golf members again would be appealing, acknowledging the presence of several good players in the rival league.