Rory McIlroy believes the new Trump administration could speed up a deal with with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund but he remains unclear about what the future holds in store for men’s professional golf.
Speaking ahead of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, the world number three sounded off on a special year ahead with The Open returning to Royal Portrush and Europe seeking an away Ryder Cup win in New York.
But when it comes to golf’s fractured landscape, he’s still unsure how a deal between the PGA TOUR, the DP World Tour and the PIF will reunite the men’s game.
“I would like to think that something happens pretty soon, but I've said that for the last two years,” McIlroy said of a deal.
The Holywood star has said frequently that Department of Justice approval is the biggest obstacle to a PIF deal but now that deal appears to be closer, he remains unconvinced the game can be reunited.
“I think from an investment standpoint, that deal should and will be done, but it doesn't solve the problem of what the landscape of golf looks like going forward,” McIlroy said.
“I'd say the biggest impediment is maybe the differing visions of what golf should look like in the future.”
McIlroy wants to see a World Tour but with TV deals locked in until 2030, he’s not holding his breath.
“Maybe by the end of this decade you might see something where it could come together, but I mean, it's so pie in the sky and there's so much stuff that can happen,” he said.
As for world number one Scottie Scheffler returning to action this week for the first time since puncturing his hand making ravioli on Christmas Day, McIlroy said the “super impressive” Texan will be a “dominant force” again this year if he continues to play almost mistake-free golf.
Joking about Scheffer’s domestic mishap but pleased no major damage was done, he added: “I think he made enough money to hire a chef. It's like why are you cooking yourself?
“Firstly, just concern and hope he was OK. It sounds like he is, it's good that he's teeing it up this week. Yeah, get a chef.”
Article Link: McIlroy says PIF deal no guarantee of golf’s reunification - News - Irish Golf Desk