LIV Golf is preparing for a post-Saudi funding era, with CEO Scott O'Neil tasked with securing new investment to keep the league afloat. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia is expected to cease its financial backing at the end of the current season. O'Neil is currently in New York, actively seeking to raise $350 million to fund the league through 2027.
To attract investors, LIV Golf is proposing several changes, including increasing player equity in the league and their individual teams. The league's '2.0' plan also features new individual tournament elements and a focus on expanding into underserved international markets like South Africa and Australia, where they have already seen significant attendance.
While O'Neil expresses optimism about investor interest, he acknowledges a tight deadline, aiming to have the necessary funds secured by the end of the summer. The possibility of a US bankruptcy filing is also being considered as a last resort if new funding cannot be raised. Despite this, O'Neil remains confident, emphasizing player commitment and the league's potential to create substantial value. Some reports indicate that Bryson DeChambeau, a key player, might not renew his contract after this year, although others like Jon Rahm are committed for the foreseeable future.
