As the PGA Tour and LIV Golf inch closer to a common accord that consolidates the future of golf, the question of how to reshape the sporting landscape looms large. In the early stages, both parties seemed to eagerly anticipate the other’s downfall. However, a newfound understanding has emerged, with both sides acknowledging the need for collective decision-making in shaping the sport’s future.
The dilemma lies in striking a balance. While the current structure allows for the best players to compete in the four majors, there’s a need to offer more frequent face-offs amongst the golfing elite. Most of the headline events under both the PGA Tour and LIV conclude by September, presenting an additional challenge. Moreover, the burgeoning DP World Tour is another factor that demands consideration.
Rory McIlroy, one of golf’s most prominent faces, calls for a change in the PGA Tour’s approach. Ahead of the Players Championship, he voiced his desire to see the sport adopt a more international outlook, with a specific event in mind that warrants greater emphasis.
McIlroy, ever the global player, stated, “Golf is a sport with a global footprint. It didn’t originate in America, and it’s played worldwide.” He noted that the primary capital for professional golf comes from America, hence the reason why most of the significant tournaments take place there. However, he believes there’s scope for some of these larger tournaments to be hosted outside of America.
His global itinerary reflects his ethos. Starting his year in the Middle East, he then crosses over to the US, heads to the UK, and following the FedExCup Playoffs, returns to Europe for another four or five events.
The Northern Irishman specifically highlighted the Australian Open as an event that deserves a higher stature. Once a prestigious tournament, the Australian Open’s reputation has somewhat diminished over the years. McIlroy, who won the tournament in 2013, beating Adam Scott by a single stroke, believes there is a significant opportunity to bolster the event’s prestige once again.
“Without a doubt, we need more grand events in Australia. The Australian Open, once a highly esteemed tournament, could be one to elevate along with a few others,” he said.
McIlroy’s sentiment echoes a statement made by golfing legend Jack Nicklaus, who once dubbed the Australian Open as the “fifth major.” With the DP World Tour now sanctioning the tournament, Australia’s need for top-tier events is more evident than ever. The city of Adelaide hosts LIV Golf’s premier event, and with a plethora of exceptional Australian golfers gracing the tours, it’s high time the Land Down Under got its chance to bask in the global golfing spotlight once more.
As the sport evolves, McIlroy’s push for a more global golfing landscape could be the change that both the PGA Tour and LIV Golf need to consider seriously. Only then will the sport truly shine, not just in America but all around the world.
