Slate News Hang Up | The PGA Tour's Saudi Stalemate
Mar 31, 2025
Joel Beall, a Senior Writer at Golf Digest and author of "Playing Dirty," dives into the contentious saga between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s LIV Golf. He discusses the failed negotiations and geopolitical implications of Saudi investment in sports. The conversation also touches on March Madness, focusing on the dominance of No. 1 seeds, and highlights Alex Ovechkin's quest to eclipse Wayne Gretzky's NHL goal record. The discussion captures the evolving landscape of competitive sports and the ethical dilemmas that arise.
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Deal Delay
- The PGA Tour and LIV Golf announced a framework agreement in June 2023.
- The deal aimed to end their business war, but it hasn't been finalized.
Stalled Negotiations
- Despite optimistic statements after a White House meeting with Donald Trump, the deal appears to have stalled.
- The PGA Tour's reluctance to integrate team events is a major obstacle.
LIV Golf's Purpose
- LIV Golf hasn't gained popularity, but it serves Saudi Arabia's soft power goals.
- The PGA Tour questions LIV's value, aiming to recapture players like DeChambeau and Koepka.