The Gulf civil war in golf began with Live Golf Investments committing $200 million to establish new tournaments, leading to top players defecting from the PGA Tour to the Saudi-backed league. The merger between the PGA Tour and Live Golf, backed by Saudi Arabia's wealth, highlights the financial constraints faced by the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia's larger strategy to reorient towards a post-oil era, despite ethical concerns over human rights violations.
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Live Golf Investments, backed by the Saudi Sovereign Wealth Fund, announced a $200 million commitment to establish new golf tournaments, attracting top players like Dustin Johnson, Dechambeau, Koepka, and Smith, signaling a potential shift in the golfing landscape.
The PGA Tour's response to Live's announcement, increasing prize money and player incentives, along with the unexpected merger with Saudi-backed Liv, showcases the complex interplay between financial constraints, human rights concerns, and the broader strategy of Saudi Arabia to transition to a post-oil era through sports investments, raising ethical dilemmas within the global sports community.
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Recent questions
What sparked the Gulf civil war in October 2021?
Press release by Live Golf Investments
Who was announced as the CEO of Live Golf Investments?
Greg Norman
What led to criticism of the PGA Tour's pay structure?
Unique reward system for winners only
Why did Phil Mickelson hint at leaving the PGA Tour?
Criticism of PGA Tour's greed
What motivated the PGA Tour to merge with Live Golf Investments?