Golf's Villain Returns: Patrick Reed Back to PGA Tour

Brooks Koepka's recent return to the PGA TOUR from LIV Golf has sparked debate, with Patrick Reed also announcing his imminent return. Reed's history, marked by accusations of cheating and a public falling out with his family, makes his re-entry particularly noteworthy.

The LIV Golf project, which has reportedly spent over $5 billion, appears to be struggling. Despite initially attracting top talent with lucrative deals, LIV has failed to gain significant traction in terms of viewership or business success. The league's team formats have been unsuccessful, and investor interest in its "franchises" has been non-existent.

The PGA TOUR, meanwhile, has secured substantial funding after an initial "truce" with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. Many PGA stars now believe Saudi backing is no longer necessary. While LIV's current star players like Jon Rahm and Cam Smith remain, many other LIV contracts are set to expire after 2026, potentially leading to further player departures and undermining the Saudi golf venture.

This situation has cast doubt on LIV's long-term viability. Without new star recruits and facing challenges in retaining its current roster, LIV's survival hinges on continued financial support, which may be reaching its limit. The future of professional golf remains fluid as these dynamics continue to unfold.