Pablo Torre Finds Out Why Golf Yalta Explains Donald Trump
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Jun 10, 2025 
Alan Shipnuck, a veteran golf reporter and author, delves deep into the intricate connections between golf, politics, and Donald Trump's influence. He discusses how Trump's obsession with exclusivity impacts the sport and the controversies surrounding LIV Golf and its Saudi ties. The conversation also touches on the emotional reactions from 9/11 families, ethics in professional golf, and the surprising merger between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. Shipnuck sheds light on the shifting dynamics of golf amid political upheaval and sports washing.
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LIV Golf Sparks Golf's Cold War
- LIV Golf emerged as a breakaway league shaking the traditional golf world with massive Saudi investment.
- It spotlighted golf's governance struggles and introduced Shakespearean themes of power and greed.
Phil Mickelson's Triple Agent Role
- Phil Mickelson secretly negotiated with LIV and PGA, playing multiple sides in shadowy talks.
- His candid admission to Alan Shipnuck unveiled the murky dynamics behind the scenes.
LIV Changed Golf Finances
- LIV forced the PGA Tour to increase player payouts by raising prize money significantly.
- This vindicated Phil Mickelson's critique of the PGA Tour's 'bloated bureaucracy'.