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LIV Golf CEO Denies Funding Crisis, Season Unchanged

ESPN General •
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LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil has dismissed reports that Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund is pulling funding, telling staff in an email that the 2026 season will proceed as planned. The email, obtained by ESPN, comes amid speculation that PIF might stop investing in the breakaway circuit after spending more than $5 billion since 2022.

O'Neil's message emphasized that LIV Golf is heading into the heart of its schedule with full energy, despite media speculation. The league faces challenges in the U.S. market, including low TV ratings and limited commercial revenue from deals with The CW and Fox Sports. LIV Golf has also struggled to secure contracts for top-rated courses, frustrating star players who feel underprepared for major championships.

Since its 2022 launch, LIV Golf has spent heavily on player contracts and tournament purses, which increased to $30 million this season. The league attracted major names like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau with guaranteed contracts reportedly worth hundreds of millions. While O'Neil's email aims to reassure stakeholders, the circuit's long-term viability remains uncertain as it continues to compete for relevance against the PGA Tour.