The chaos in professional golf has reached the highest levels of power, and now, Donald Trump is stepping in.
During his presidential campaign, the newly elected U.S. president made it clear that he wanted to help restore order to the sport, which has been in turmoil since LIV Golf’s emergence and its battle with the PGA Tour.
Now, he’s backing up that promise.
This week, Trump met with PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan and PGA player-director Adam Scott, signaling his intent to mediate discussions between the PGA Tour and the Saudi-backed Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Could Trump be the key to finally ending golf’s ugly civil war?
PGA Tour’s Official Statement – Trump’s Influence is Already in Play
The PGA Tour, which has been under fire for months over stalled negotiations, publicly acknowledged Trump’s involvement, issuing a statement on X (formerly Twitter) thanking him for his support.
“We know golf fans are eagerly anticipating a resolution to negotiations with the Public Investment Fund and want to thank President Trump for his interest and long-time support for the game of golf.”
“We asked the President to get involved for the good of the game, the good of the country, and for all the countries involved.”
“We are grateful that his leadership has brought us closer to a final deal, paving the way for reunification of men’s professional golf.”
This marks a huge development in golf’s ongoing battle, as Trump’s involvement could apply pressure on both sides to speed up negotiations and finally reach a deal.
But can he actually bring the PGA Tour and PIF to an agreement?
The PGA-PIF Stalemate – What’s Holding Up the Deal?
It’s been months since the PGA Tour and LIV Golf’s Saudi financiers announced their controversial framework agreement. Yet, no final deal has been reached, and golf remains bitterly divided.
What’s the holdup?
1️⃣ Power Struggles – The PGA Tour wants more control over the sport’s future, while PIF believes its massive financial investment should give it a bigger stake.
2️⃣ Player Resistance – Top PGA Tour stars remain skeptical of any agreement that could see LIV Golf’s biggest defectors welcomed back without penalty.
3️⃣ Uncertain Leadership – The PGA Tour’s leadership under Jay Monahan has been widely criticized, and LIV Golf’s new CEO, Scott O’Neil, has only just taken over.
Despite both sides insisting they want an agreement, neither has been willing to compromise enough to close the deal.
Now, with Trump stepping in, could the landscape shift?
Trump’s Golf Influence – Why His Involvement Matters
Love him or hate him, Trump’s impact on golf is undeniable.
🏌️ Owns multiple golf properties – Including Trump Bedminster, Trump Doral, and Turnberry.
🏆 Has hosted numerous professional events – Previously aligned with the PGA Tour and now LIV Golf.
💰 Strong ties with Saudi investors – Helped bring LIV Golf tournaments to his courses.
Given his longstanding connections to both sides, Trump could play a major role in facilitating a final deal.
If nothing else, his presence will put pressure on both the PGA Tour and PIF to finally come to the table and settle their differences.
Can the War Finally End? LIV Golf CEO Says ‘Both Sides Want Resolution’
In a promising sign, LIV Golf’s new CEO, Scott O’Neil, recently expressed optimism that a deal will eventually happen.
“Both sides want to put an end to this story, as they want the world of golf to move in the right direction.”
With Trump now involved, negotiations could finally gain momentum.
But whether this leads to a resolution or just more political maneuvering remains to be seen.
What’s Next? The Clock is Ticking
The PGA Tour and PIF need to finalize a deal sooner rather than later.
If Trump’s involvement accelerates negotiations, the golf world could finally see a unified men’s professional landscape for the first time since 2022.
But if both sides continue to dig in and refuse to compromise, the divide could grow even deeper—potentially causing irreversible damage to the sport.
One thing is certain: Trump has officially entered golf’s biggest fight, and his influence could change everything.
Will he be the dealmaker golf desperately needs? Or is this just another chapter in the sport’s never-ending power struggle?
The next few weeks could determine the future of professional golf as we know it.
