STERLING, Va. — Is this the beginning of the end? Or the beginning of a new beginning? At President Trump's Washington D.C.-area club, where LIV Golf held its first event since the Saudi Public Investment Fund announced it would pull its billions after the 2026 season, uncertainty filled the air.
From players and caddies to media and volunteers, everyone sensed the league's uncertain future. Even Bryson DeChambeau, LIV's biggest star, admitted he was blindsided by the PIF's decision. 'Same day as everybody else,' he said of when he learned about it. 'I didn’t know. It was quite quick.'
DeChambeau recalled his immediate reaction: 'There’s no way. That’s frickin’ impossible, considering what I’d heard a couple months earlier. I thought there was a plan through 2032.' He added, 'I wish they would have stayed a little longer, because we’re really close on the team side.'
LIV CEO Scott O’Neil acknowledged the challenge but expressed commitment, saying, 'I am not a status quo manager. This is what I do.' He noted that 18 months ago, it was clear significant changes were needed for the league to grow.
Some players worry about LIV's survival. A veteran pro mentioned a sense of 'worry,' especially among less established players who might have nowhere to play if LIV folds. Jon Rahm suggested concessions might be necessary, while rookie Caleb Surratt remained focused on his career and major victories.
Despite financial doubts, Tuesday's event looked like past LIV tournaments, with no signs of duress. DeChambeau entertained partners, and corporate suites lined the 18th fairway. When asked about the changed energy, DeChambeau said, 'I view it as an opportunity. Anytime a door closes, another one opens.'