PGA Tour and LIV Golf Look for Merger Deal Under Trump
Briefly

The PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia's LIV Golf are engaged in secret talks to merge their competing golf circuits, motivated by Donald Trump's willingness to mediate. Although discussions began in April 2023, challenges arise in creating a deal acceptable to regulators, players, and executives. Trump’s potential return to influence presents a more favorable climate for negotiations, as he may ease antitrust scrutiny. Complications include evaluating both leagues' worth and aligning with a separate $1.5 billion investment from American investors, leaving the future of any agreement uncertain.
The PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund are racing to reshape their plans to combine their rival golf circuits, spurred by Trump’s role as peacemaker.
Despite ongoing negotiations since April 2023, the PGA Tour and LIV Golf struggle to finalize a deal that satisfies regulatory and stakeholder concerns.
With Trump's return, the PGA Tour executives see a newly favorable environment for potential collaboration, potentially easing the stringent regulatory landscape under Biden.
Negotiators are exploring various options for a merger, competing against the backdrop of a massive $1.5 billion investment from American sports investors.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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