PGA To LIV Golf: Why This Deflections ? Money what else ?

A massive shift has been observed in the Professional Golfers’ Association. The golfers are deflecting from PGA to LIV Golf. Prominent names come into the picture are Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau. This gave rise to multiple questions in the minds of golf lovers. We are here to clear up the confusion!

TUCSON, ARIZONA – NOVEMBER 27: Charles Barkley, Phil Mickelson, Stephen Curry and Peyton Manning.

What Is LIV Golf And The Controversy Surrounding It?

LIV Golf is a tour financially aided by the sovereign of Saudi Arabia, which is currently valued at $600 Billion.  This series got its name from LIV from the Roman number 54, which means the minimum score one has to have on a par 72 course. The tour seems fine, but it’s receiving criticism because of the Image SA holds and the controversy surrounding it. Players who are drifting are being accused of “sports washing” as they are helping SA get rid of the rumours and divert the public eye to sports and also generate revenue for the country!

The most prominent instance of Saudi Arabia’s spotty history is its role in the murder of Washington Post contributor Jamal Khashoggi. Khashoggi was a vocal critic of the Saudi government and used his platform as a writer to do so. When Khashoggi attempted to obtain a marriage license in the Saudi consulate in Turkey, he was slain by Saudi agents. In addition to Khashoggi’s death, the nation has long imposed restrictions on civil liberties and political rights.

 

Why This Deflection? Players On Spotlight: Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and more!

The one thing that attracts the human mind the most, Money!

In sharp contrast to the PGA Tour’s repute for being merit-based, LIV provides that one thing the latter does not by offering contracts to its players. According to reports, Phil Mickelson received a $200 million offer to join the LIV Golf Tour as the initial and most well-known player. During his PGA Tour career, Mickelson has earned $94 million on the golf course.

Another LIV Golf defector, former No. 1 golfer Dustin Johnson, made $74,276,710 over the period of his playing career. Johnson has a four-year deal with LIV Golf worth an estimated $125 million.

In addition to receiving substantial payouts, former PGA players also enjoy a less demanding schedule and increased payouts for winning some championships. For instance, Charl Schwartzel received a $4 million payout for winning the first LIV Golf event in London, which is more than any significant competition winner has ever received.

Bryson DeChambeau,  the 28-year-old player, first denied the offer from LIV golf. Eventually, on acceptance, he said it was nothing but an intelligent business strategy. He added that moving to LIV goals is going to bring him and his career a lot of exposure and also bring him time that he can spend with his family.