Senator to Investigate PGA Tour-LIV Golf Merger

Senator Ron Wyden Launches Investigation into PGA Tour and LIV Golf Merger

Senator Ron Wyden, the chairman of the Senate Financial Services Committee, has announced a probe into the merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. What makes this merger particularly controversial is the fact that LIV Golf is funded by the Saudis.

In a letter addressed to PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan IV and PGA Chairman Ed Herlihy, Wyden expressed his concerns about the PGA Tour’s involvement with the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF). He questioned whether organizations that align themselves with an authoritarian regime that undermines the rule of law should continue to enjoy tax-exempt status in the United States.

Wyden also highlighted the potential risks this arrangement may pose to America’s national interests, especially regarding foreign investment in U.S. real estate near military facilities or sensitive manufacturing centers. He urged the PGA Tour to address these risks and provide mitigation plans.

Human Rights Abuses and Controversial Statements

Wyden cited numerous human rights abuses committed by Saudi Arabia, including the detention of dissidents, torture of women’s rights activists, and arbitrary killings. He also mentioned the infamous 2018 dismemberment of Saudi critic Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, for which Saudi Prince Mohammed Bin Salman has been held responsible.

Furthermore, Wyden pointed out a statement made by PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan in 2022, where he criticized LIV Golf as being part of a “foreign monarchy that is spending billions of dollars in an attempt to buy the game of golf.” Wyden questioned the inconsistency of Monahan’s stance, as he had previously suspended and scolded PGA players for accepting large buyouts from Saudi-backed LIV Golf.

Wyden’s concerns extend to potential compensation arrangements between the PGA Tour and the Saudi-backed LIV Golf, as he raises questions about any private benefits provided to individuals, which is prohibited by the Tax Code’s Section 501(c)(6).