Crystal Pouncey
Apr 12, 2024 - 12:10

Tom Watson hopes players do something mend PGA Tour-LIV Golf split

PGA Tour and LIV Golf worlds collide at the Masters, sparking conversation among legends about the need for unity in golf.

The world of professional golf is currently navigating two separate paths, the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, which have now converged at the prestigious Masters tournament. This marks the first time since last year's U.S. Open that all of the game's top players have gathered to compete against each other.

During the annual Champions Dinner, honoring defending champion Jon Rahm who has since joined the LIV tour, two-time Masters winner Tom Watson took the opportunity to address the unique situation. Reflecting on the camaraderie and joviality shared among the players, Watson emphasized the importance of unity in the sport.

Joined by golf legends Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, Watson expressed his desire for the best players to come together and compete against each other, fostering a sense of togetherness and camaraderie. The ongoing competition between the two tours has led to a fractured state in professional golf, with players being divided between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf.

One of the key issues that need to be addressed is determining who is invited to prestigious events like the Masters. Players who have joined the LIV tour are restricted from participating in PGA Tour events, leading to a potential decline in the field of LIV golfers at major championships like the Masters.

Despite the challenges, there is a call for solutions that allow players from different tours to compete against each other and earn their way into prestigious events. The Masters, being an invitational event, has the flexibility to extend special invitations to deserving players, regardless of their tour affiliation.

As the tournament progresses, with LIV golfer Bryson DeChambeau leading the field, the conversation around the future of professional golf and the coexistence of the PGA Tour and LIV Golf continues to evolve. The hope remains for a resolution that promotes unity, inclusivity, and the opportunity for the world's best players to compete on the same stage.