STERLING, VIRGINIA – MAY 25: Former President Donald Trump follows his tee shot during the pro-am prior to the LIV Golf Invitational – DC at Trump National Golf Club on May 25, 2023 in Sterling, Virginia. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) (Image: Getty Images)
Graeme McDowell has expressed optimism about the ongoing peace talks between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour, following ‘s involvement.
The PGA Tour faced a significant blow in 2022 when many of its players defected to the newly-established Saudi Arabia-backed LIV Golf League, leading to a ban on those who left and causing a deep rift within the golf community.
However, in June 2023, a surprising proposal for a merger between the PGA and DP World Tour with LIV’s backers, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), marked a significant step towards unity.
Despite the protracted negotiations without any major agreement, Trump’s re-election in November has sparked hope across the golfing world, with the US president playing a crucial role in speeding up the talks.
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“Constructive” discussions took place last week, and former US Open champion McDowell believes that reunification will benefit everyone in golf.
Speaking to Sport Northern Ireland, McDowell said: “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.
“That’s the key really, for the fans, for the sponsors and for TV, having the best players in the world coming together more often I think is something we all want.
“What that means and what that looks like is something we don’t know but I think everyone is very optimistic and hopefully the future of golf is bright.”
Trump recently played host at the White House to significant individuals, including golf superstar Tiger Woods. Participating in the PGA Tour’s Transaction Sub-committee, Woods hinted that a deal might materialise “very soon”, though the details of such an agreement are yet to be disclosed.
McDowell, a three-time Ryder Cup champ, switched to the LIV Golf series in its first 2022 season and has no qualms about his choice to continue with the breakaway league in 2024, affirming: “Certainly no regrets.”
He expressed confidence in the sport’s future despite controversy, stating, “I don’t have any personal regrets… I think ultimately we’re going to come out the other side of this with the game of golf in great shape.”
McDowell made a notable start in the LIV Golf arena, securing a 10th place finish at the 2022 Invitational in London, as he competed for both Cleeks GC and Smash GC in the early seasons.