While a deal between the PGA Tour and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) seems imminent, many have expressed doubts about its viability. The litigation between the two parties has been costly and drawn out, with the PGA Tour spending more than $20 million in legal fees last year alone.
Still, there are those who believe that a deal is possible. Billy Horschel, a member of the PGA Tour, told Golfweek that he thinks “we’re getting very close.” He noted that while the process has been “slow and painful,” he’s optimistic that they’ll be able to reach an agreement.
Likewise, outgoing DP World Tour CEO Keith Pelley is convinced that an agreement can be reached. In his resignation letter, he expressed his commitment to “helping to move this process forward over the next several months.” Pelley’s confidence is another sign that the end of golf’s “civil war” may be in sight.
If a deal is reached, it could be a significant step forward for the sport. It would resolve many of the issues that have been causing division, and allow players to focus on what matters most: playing golf.
As Simpson sees it, the different groups involved in the negotiations have different desires and interests, and it’s taking time to work through them. He named Strategic Sports Group (SSG), the PIF, and the many players involved as some of the key players in the negotiations.
While there have been disagreements, Simpson is hopeful that a deal will be reached soon. He noted that the process is complex and that it’s important to take the time to get it right. He also spoke in defense of Patrick Cantlay, who has come under fire in some reports.
Jordan Spieth was said to have found the allegation hilarious, as Cantlay has denied making a power grab and pointed out that the board’s structure makes it impossible for any one player to gain absolute control. Simpson himself acknowledged that he has disagreed with Cantlay at times, but he believes Cantlay is sincere in his efforts to do what the majority of players want.
Ultimately, it seems that the board is working to find a solution that is acceptable to all involved. It’s clear that there are many different opinions and perspectives, and that finding a solution will take time and effort.
According to Simpson, Cantlay’s main goal is to do what’s best for the PGA Tour and its members, regardless of their rank or status. He understands why some players might perceive the elevated events and PIP as being designed to benefit the top players, but he stresses that this is not the intention. Instead, the intention is to keep the best players on the tour and attract new talent. In order to do so, money is a necessary part of the equation.
Simpson added that all of the members of the board are working hard to improve the tour, and he praised Cantlay’s efforts in particular.
He spoke highly of PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan as well, saying, “Jay is doing the best job he can under some really tough circumstances. There have been some guys going after him in a pretty heavy-handed way. Jay is trying to do the best he can. I do think there are areas we can improve and I know that we are actively working to make the Tour better for all players. Whether it’s higher guaranteed money, better medical, changing eligibility for some events, more focus on players 50 and below – whatever it is, we’re all trying to make it better.”
Monahan took some time off after the PGA Tour’s 6 June announcement caused a stir, and rumors have been swirling that he may be on his way out as commissioner. However, Simpson insists that Monahan is fully committed to doing what’s best for the players, and he has been transparent about his intentions.
Simpson also defended Monahan’s handling of the fallout from the announcement, saying that he has “totally owned” the situation and is doing his best to move forward. Overall, it seems that Simpson has faith in Monahan’s leadership, despite the challenges facing the PGA Tour.
