PGA Tour and European Tour seal Asian Tour alliance in LIV Golf blow
The PGA Tour, European Tour and Asian Tour have announced a strategic alliance running until 2029, dealing a significant blow to rival circuit LIV Golf.
The agreement takes immediate effect and aims to provide global playing opportunities across the three golfing bodies.
It establishes a clear pathway for members of the Asian circuit to eventually join the DP World Tour in Europe.
A major setback for the breakaway circuit
This new collaboration represents a severe disruption for the Saudi-backed league.
The rival organisation had previously invested $300m (£235m) into the region to create the lucrative ‘International Series’.
Those events have been heavily dominated by defectors from the traditional ecosystem, including Carlos Ortiz and David Puig.
Financial uncertainty looms
Broader financial concerns are currently casting a long shadow over the future of the 54-hole enterprise.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) recently stated it will cease funding the controversial league after the current season.
Chief executive Scott O’Neil is now actively seeking outside investors to keep the operation afloat beyond 2026.
Adding to these woes, Canadian-based Mobii Systems Group filed a lawsuit in Miami on Monday over allegedly unpaid broadcast technology fees.
Renewed global cooperation
The DP World Tour previously co-sanctioned events in Asia between 2016 and 2021.
That relationship was severed upon the launch of the Saudi-funded project, but officials now expect at least two co-sanctioned tournaments annually.
“We feel the time is now right to collaborate with the DP World Tour and PGA Tour to enhance the Asian Tour for our members, fans and partners.”
Commissioner Cho Minn Thant believes bringing the three organisations together will significantly increase the bandwidth of professional golf.
“Positive news, and great to see the respective tours working together for the good of international golf.”
Four-time major champion Rory McIlroy shared his swift approval of the newly established agreement on social media.