LIV Golf and Saudi Arabia: The Controversy Shaking the Foundations of Professional Golf

 Controversy Surrounding LIV

The main concern with LIV Golf is the fact it is backed by Saudi investment. Saudi Arabia have been accused of using sports to escape the slander of their human rights record. A term has been formed, named 'sports washing' which critics of the Saudi movement use. The term is best described as a technique used by governments in which they use sport to improve their image to the globe. The Saudi government have been widely criticised over a number of years for not serving the citizens of Saudi with basic human rights, lack of free speech and the treatment of females and other minorities.

LIV Golf is also funded by the Saudi PIF (Public Investment Fund). This is one of the largest sovereign wealth funds in the world. Critics understand Saudi to be associating themselves near high profile athletes and sporting events to soften the image to the rest of the world. A perfect example of this is Cristiano Ronaldo. Being one of the best footballers ever, his massive following now associates him with the Saudi Arabian elite. Fans who idolise Ronaldo may view them more favourably, believing that someone they admire so much could not be associated with anything negative.

How does this effect the PGA TOUR?

As spoke about previously, PGA TOUR players who made the switch were highly criticised. Phil Mickelson even understood the history of "Saudi's horrible record on human rights" however justified his decision to make the move as a financial opportunity. Furthermore, sponsorships of the PGA TOUR who were uncomfortable with the Saudi's were cautious of aligning themselves with any players who had/planned on making the crossover or tournaments where LIV were associated due to the potential of repetitional damage.