PGA Tour chief executive Brian Rolapp has confirmed that discussions have taken place with some LIV Golf players regarding their potential return to the Tour, following claims by Bryson DeChambeau that he and his representatives have been in contact with the organisation.
Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show, Rolapp acknowledged that several players are evaluating their options, though he refrained from naming individuals. “The reality is that all of their guys are under contract. Until they’re not under contract, it’s not really an issue we need to worry about,” he said. “We’re not spending a lot of time thinking about it, honestly. We’re spending most of our time thinking about our future and how we make the Tour better.”
Rolapp added: “I don’t want to talk about personal conversations. I think it’s natural that there are a lot of people trying to figure out what their future might look like.”
DeChambeau’s Position
DeChambeau, who joined LIV Golf in 2022, recently claimed he has spoken directly with Rolapp about a possible return. He told Skratch: “I think there’s a way to solve any problem. It’s really about if the membership wants me back and if they just want me back, that’s what it’s about. I don’t even think it’s Brian Rolapp or anybody like one of the top executives, it’s really if the players want me back and if not, then I understand that.”
The uncertainty surrounding LIV’s financial backing from Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, which is set to end after this season, has left players like DeChambeau and Jon Rahm facing an unclear future. Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed have already returned to the PGA Tour earlier this year, but DeChambeau and Rahm remain under contract with LIV.
McIlroy’s Perspective
Rory McIlroy also weighed in on the situation, referencing Rolapp’s comments after his second round at the Truist Championship. “It’s a question if [players] do want to come back. Obviously, we have seen the quotes over the last few days. And, you know, it seems like it all depends on what happens to LIV,” McIlroy said. “But if it is a scenario where they have the option to come back and play on the traditional tours, you know, I think Brian Rolapp has said anything that makes this tour stronger, anything that makes the DP World Tour stronger, I think everyone should be open to that, that’s just good business practice.”
DeChambeau has also hinted at alternative plans, telling various outlets that if a return to the PGA Tour is not possible, he would focus on creating content for YouTube and playing in tournaments that welcome him.
