Golf fans were treated to an early Christmas present this year after announcing a LIV vs. PGA matchup in Las Vegas between Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau, and Brooks Koepka.
This contest pits two of the biggest stars on the PGA Tour against the most high-profile golfers from the rival LIV tour in what hopes to be the first step towards reunification. The 2 v 2 matchup will be held in Las Vegas sometime in mid-December and will air on TNT.
TNT previously developed and broadcasted nine editions of “The Match” a similar style golf matchup featuring celebrities such as Patrick Mahomes, Charles Barkley, and Tiger Woods. McIlroy, Koepka, and DeChambeau have participated in The Match in previous years, though it remains to be seen if the LIV vs. PGA event will be a continuation of The Match.
Spokespersons for three of the golfers confirmed their involvement in conjunction with the press release. “Brooks and Scottie are very excited to be a part of this unique event and look forward to sharing more soon.” said Blake Smith, an agent for Koepka and Scheffler.
Brett Falkoff, the agent for DeChambeau said, “Bryson looks forward to competing in Las Vegas this December in an event that is sure to provide great entertainment for the fans.”
The announcement of this event between the two Tours comes during a defrosting period regarding the relationship between the two ventures. The PGA Tour, led by Commissioner Jay Monahan, has been in lengthy negotiations with representatives of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) who have bankrolled the LIV Tour. These negotiations, now reaching 15 months since the announcement of a controversial Framework Agreement, have left players, fans, and sponsors uncertain about the future of the sport.
The matchup features arguably the best golfers in the world as well as a level of drama. Fans will remember DeChambeau and McIlroy’s battle at the US Open this year leading to a heartbreaking finish for Rory. DeChambeau and Koepka have also had beef in the past though they appear to have turned the corner and will be playing as a team. Scottie Scheffler just finished what might be considered one of the best individual golf seasons, earning over $65 million in prize money.
