Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler will take on Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka in a new team event, with the PGA Tour and LIV Golf peace talks seemingly put to one side
Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau, and Brooks Koepka are gearing up for an epic showdown as they prepare to reignite their golfing rivalry without waiting for a PGA Tour-LIV Golf settlement.
Golf aficionados received the good news on Wednesday that a PGA Tour versus LIV grudge match is on the agenda, featuring four top-tier golfers. Tour favourites McIlroy and Scheffler will join forces to take on LIV standout duo DeChambeau and Koepka.
The head-to-head battle slated for broadcast by TNT in December out of Las Vegas, will feature four of golf’s most prominent figures.
Despite being a staunch LIV opponent amidst the sport’s internal strife, McIlroy couldn’t hide his enthusiasm when he spoke to Golfweek : “I’m thrilled to partner with Scottie in what promises to be an exciting duel against Bryson and Brooks in Vegas this December.”
McIlroy added: “This isn’t just a contest between some of golf’s major champions; it’s an event designed to energise the fans. We’re all here to put on a great show and contribute to a goodwill event that brings the best together again.”
His comments come following the PGA Tour’s unexpected approval of an arrangement with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) over a year ago. The planned accord is anticipated to dispel the friction between the Tour and LIV, reassembling the world’s premier golfing talents.
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Over a year since the first whispers of unity in professional men’s golf surfaced in the form of the merger framework agreement, theres still no concrete alliance formed, leaving players such as McIlroy weary of the wait. McIlroy, who’s been outspoken about the prolonged negotiations, told BBC Sport earlier this year that those involved need to “put their egos aside” and find a solution for the good of the sport. “I don’t think there is a fast solution,” he said, expressing his desire to see the top players competing together more frequently.
PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan also chimed in with an update during last week’s Tour Championship, stating they are discussing terms with the Public Investment Fund and remain optimistic. Monahan insisted: “We’re at the table and actively engaged with the Public Investment Fund,” while emphasising the need to keep making progress regardless of the talks. “We remain hopeful about that outcome.
“But at the same time, we’re moving forward at speed and focused on what we can control, because that’s what we owe to our fans. I don’t think we want to restrict ourselves in that way. We want to achieve the best and right outcome at the right time.”
