PGA Tour chief executive Brian Rolapp has refused to deny that talks have taken place with LIV Golf players regarding their futures in the sport. The long-serving NFL executive declined to name any individuals, though Bryson DeChambeau has claimed to have held discussions with the Tour.
LIV’s loss of financial backing from Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund when this season concludes leaves DeChambeau and his fellow players facing an uncertain road ahead. Brooks Koepka made his way back to the PGA Tour earlier this year, while Patrick Reed will become eligible again this summer.
The likes of DeChambeau and Rahm remain bound by their contracts, but Rolapp has conceded that there is precious little the Tour can do at present. Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show, he said: “The reality is that all of their guys are under contract, so until they’re not under contract, it’s not really an issue we need to worry about.
“We’re not spending a lot of time thinking about it, honestly, we’re spending most of our time thinking about our future and how we make the Tour better.” Rolapp also added: “I don’t want to talk about personal conversations, but I think it’s natural that there are a lot of people trying to figure out what their future might look like.”
DeChambeau referenced Rolapp by name when addressing a potential comeback, telling Skratch: “I think there’s a way to solve any problem. It’s really about if the membership wants me back and if they just want me back, that’s what it’s about. I don’t even think it’s Brian Rolapp or anybody like one of the top executives; it’s really if the players want me back, and if not, then I understand that.
He also recently told various outlets that if a return were not possible, he would focus on YouTube. DeChambeau also said: “And then I’d love to play tournaments that want me.”
McIlroy also referenced Rolapp when addressing the subject of LIV following his second round at the Truist Championship, stating: “It’s a question if [players] do want to come back. Obviously, we have seen the quotes over the last few days. And, you know, it seems like it all depends on what happens to LIV.
“But if it is a scenario where they have the option to come back and play on the traditional tours, you know, I think Brian Rolapp has said anything that makes this tour stronger, anything that makes the DP World Tour stronger, I think everyone should be open to that, that’s just good business practice.”