Jon Rahm, a key figure in LIV Golf, has expressed that he is not overly concerned about the league's future, despite ongoing speculation surrounding its financial stability. Recent reports have suggested that LIV could face funding issues, as Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, the primary backer of the breakaway golf league, unveiled a new investment strategy without mentioning LIV Golf. The latest LIV event in Mexico commenced despite some technical issues during the broadcast, which were attributed to local power outages.
Following a strong round of 65, placing him second behind Victor Perez, Rahm stated that he wasn't overly worried about the rumors surrounding LIV's future, emphasizing that he focuses on preparing for tournaments rather than speculating about the league's financial situation. Rahm noted that typically, news and rumors emerge quickly, and in this case, the speed at which the rumors spread didn't alarm him.
The Daily Telegraph reported an 'emergency meeting' of LIV Golf executives, while the Financial Times indicated that Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund might cut its support, although no final decision has been made. LIV Golf has already spent $5.3 billion and is projected to exceed $6 billion by the end of the year, according to the Money in Sport newsletter. Despite the uncertainty, LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil expressed confidence in the league's future, citing significant sponsorship deals with major brands like Rolex and HSBC.
O'Neil highlighted the potential for growth and the possibility of LIV Golf collaborating with national opens to further develop the game. He also emphasized that the continuation of LIV Golf would be beneficial for the sport as a whole, providing healthy competition and more golfing events globally.
LIV Golf was launched in 2021, backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, as a rival to the PGA Tour and DP World Tour. Its emergence has led to a division within professional golf, with notable players like Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson joining the breakaway tour.
The league has undergone changes, including an expansion to 74 holes in 2026 and an increased total prize fund of $30 million. Sky Sports News chief correspondent Kaveh Solhekol suggested that Saudi Arabia is reassessing its investment in sports, seeking a more business-oriented approach and a return on investment.
Solhekol believes that Saudi Arabia will continue to invest in sports like football, Formula 1, and golf but with a more cautious and sensible approach.