LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil addressed uncertainty surrounding the league's future after the Saudi Public Investment Fund announced it will cease funding at the end of 2026. Speaking ahead of LIV Golf Virginia at Trump National D.C., O'Neil detailed plans for a new business model and new advisors. Top player Jon Rahm called for a clear business plan before committing further.
Scott O'Neil, CEO of LIV Golf, spoke to reporters on Tuesday at Trump National D.C., his first public comments since the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced last week that it would stop funding the league after 2026. The session followed a Q&A with LIV Chief Communications Officer Ilana Finley. O'Neil emphasized resetting the business plan, stating, “The priorities are really clear. First and foremost, we need to get the players settled, on board and focusing on golf.” He described the need for “significant and substantive changes” foreseen over a year ago, calling it naive to be surprised by PIF's move after previously assuring players of funding for five more years. LIV has added board members Gene Davis and Jon Zimman, experienced in turnarounds, along with firms Alix Partners for restructuring, Gibson Dunn for legal matters, and Ducera Partners for investment banking. O'Neil, embracing his role as a “wartime CEO,” said, “This is 100 percent what I love to do, this moment.” He highlighted the league's mission to grow golf globally and the value in its team franchises, citing rises in sports valuations like the Utah Jazz from $13 million to $1.8 billion. Jon Rahm, LIV's top player, spoke separately, expressing curiosity about the business plan: “I don’t think he would ask anybody to buy into anything without giving us a business plan first.” Rahm acknowledged potential player concessions and described the uncertainty as “extra noise,” focusing on competing in the ongoing season and majors. He confirmed several years remain on his contract with no immediate plans to exit. O'Neil noted interest from a dozen potential investors, including private equity and high-net-worth individuals. LIV Golf Virginia begins Thursday, serving as a final tune-up before the PGA Championship next week. Player pay beyond 2026 and Bryson DeChambeau's short-term contract remain unresolved, with O'Neil calling DeChambeau “special” and a key business partner.
