The PGA Tour LIV Golf merger prompted Jack Nicklaus’ curious reaction

Jack Nicklaus knows a thing or two about golf.

His opinions carry tremendous weight as he has spent his life shaping the game, the PGA Tour, and his beloved Memorial Tournament.

Following the announcement of the PGA Tour’s merger with the Saudi Public Investment Fund, Nicklaus Weighs on the situation.

“The last three years have been tough for the game and the players,” Nicklaus told the Palm Beach Post. “I spoke with PGA Tour Commissioner Guy Monahan this morning. He seemed pleased with the arrangement that will once again bring together the best players in the world. I agree it’s good for golf.”

The Golf’s big cleavage seemed to be in the rearview mirror, much to Nicklaus’ delight.

“I also appreciate the commissioner’s comments about continuing the touring tradition and mission to support important charitable causes,” Nicklaus added. I’m definitely interested in seeing the details. [Monahan] He noted that all of this will happen in 2024, so pretty soon, the proof will be in the pudding. Whatever is best for the game of golf has my full support.”

This good-for-the-game agreement comes as somewhat of a surprise, Nicklaus says, considering the frustrations shared among PGA Tour players, the accusations of hypocrisy thrown Monahan’s way, and understanding who benefits in PIF.

However, the 18-time major winner has long supported anything that would benefit golf in the long term.

For years, it was the “Golden Bear” argue in favor of retrieving the golf ball for the game’s best players, considering today’s tour players hit it too far. He feels the move will help with the integration of game and irrigation systems on golf courses, as well as limit course renovation and expansion costs.

Nicklaus shared his thoughts on LIV Golf as well, saying that he “didn’t consider these guys to be a part of the game anymore.”

“This is a PGA Tour event, and we have the best field we can provide for a PGA Tour event for those who qualify to be here,” Nicklaus said ahead of the 2023 Memorial Championships. “Other men choose what they do and where they go, and we don’t even talk about that.”

With the announcement of the merger, those on the LIV golf course can play in the 2024 Memorial Tournament. Monahan previously suspended players who defected from the breakaway tour, but they can now re-apply for PGA Tour membership after the 2023 season.

Nicklaus seems ready to move on.