There has been a wave of golfers heading to LIV Golf in the past month. Names like Kevin Na, Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, and Phil Mickelson have migrated to the Saudi-backed league, which has caused immense controversy. As a result, the PGA Tour has banned any golfer that's participating in the new league.
However, there's a bigger issue looming for the PGA Tour. Ratings have fallen by the wayside since Tiger Woods was out of the picture. In fact, viewership of the PGA Championship was down to its lowest rating (2.8) since 2008. That brings up a big question: is the PGA Tour on its deathbed?
Honestly, it's a mixed bag. Commissioner Jay Monahan announced that purses have increased, something players have clamored for. However, this has been a persistent issue for the players, who still feel that the PGA is withholding funds. While the PGA Tour has addressed the issue, it doesn't seem to be enough.
Compare that to LIV Golf, which is offering larger purses. For example, Charl Schwartzel bagged $4 million in his recent tournament victory. There's a good reason why golfers are flocking to the Saudi-backed league.
In fact, the league offered Tiger a nine-figure deal to join the league. However, the legendary golfer declined, choosing to stay back and focus on his own endeavors. Still, it's notable that LIV Golf is making massive strides to take out the competition. That's definitely the case when notable names like Mickelson and Sergio Garcia have joined the league.
It's early to say whether the PGA Tour can weather this storm. However, if there's one thing we've learned, it's that money talks. That's especially true when golfers want a larger purse than what they're given.
