Golf legend Sir Nick Faldo recently expressed significant doubt about the long-term viability of LIV Golf, stating that its proposed 2.0 iteration appears to be rather weak. His comments, made ahead of the Husqvarna British Masters at The Belfry, come as the breakaway tour faces uncertainty regarding its future funding and player commitments.
The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia confirmed in April that it would cease funding LIV Golf at the end of the current season. While LIV Golf has indicated securing a new investor for 2026 and beyond, player support is reportedly crucial for the transaction to finalize. Several prominent players are currently evaluating their options.
Faldo observed that it seems more players are looking to leave LIV Golf than join it. European Ryder Cup veteran Ian Poulter has admitted he is undecided about committing to LIV Golf 2.0, and Bryson DeChambeau’s recent social media activity has been interpreted as potentially ominous. Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton, who both joined LIV for the 2024 season, are also reportedly considering their departures. Hatton hinted at his exit at the season finale in Indianapolis by selecting Queen’s song I Want to Break Free for the party hole and expressing a desire to leave quickly after his team’s victory. Rahm, whose initial contract is believed to run until 2028, has remained silent on his plans, though reports suggest the PIF might attempt to buy out his contract at a reduced rate, potentially leading to a legal dispute if he seeks to leave.
Faldo believes that if players like Rahm and Hatton return to the established tours, it will strengthen world golf. He also commented on discussions between the DP World Tour and the PGA Tour about launching a global series, with proposals potentially coming to fruition for the 2028 season. This series could feature nine events across various international locations, including England, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, France, Spain, Italy, Australia, and South Africa. Faldo hopes that top players will travel more extensively, similar to schedules in previous eras, noting that the current American season concludes in August, much earlier than in his playing days.
