LIV Golf Rumors: Jay Monahan’s Massive Al-Rumayyan Decision Set to Eradicate Merger Limbo, $3B Deal Imminent

The $3 billion merger has been in the talks for a while now. From its surprising reveal back in June 2023 to its astonishing deadline extension at the start of January, this month, it has undoubtedly kept the golfing world on the edge of its seats. Well, it appears the community is in for a shock again as reports indicate a huge step being taken by Jay Monahan himself.

Back in November, the commissioner had revealed his plans to meet with the PIF governor which, suffice to say, never took place even after the news of the deadline extension. But now, it seems the American has finally made a move as sources mention the official to be currently in Saudi Arabia to meet with none other than Yasir Al-Rumayyan!

Jay Monahan on the move?

A tweet was shared by NUCLR GOLF mentioning how a Sports Business Journal report indicates the PGA Tour commissioner to have “traveled to Saudi Arabia for meetings with the PIF.” As per sources, this is believed to be their first “in-person” meeting since June, back when the framework agreement was announced.

However, it’s not as if no contact was made between the two. Several media outlets had revealed how the two had supposedly held a lengthy phone call that led to “significant progress” towards the merger. Moreover, the reported meeting this week comes just a few days following the news regarding DP World Tour CEO, Keith Pelley, jumping to Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.

Nevertheless, Pelley has expressed his belief that a deal would happen in the next three months and has also asked to stay on for the same duration in a bid to see it through. Moreover, he also highlighted the actions of Al-Rumayyan and mentioned how they have given him hope for the deal happening. What action, you might ask! Well, he was referring to LIV Golf poaching Jon Rahm forcing Monahan to make a move and announce their deal with Strategic Business Group.

The meeting between the PIF governor and the commissioner is truly good news for the golf community. Nevertheless, it would have been a relief for many following the appointment of Pelley as CEO of MLSE.

Pelley hired as CEO of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment

The news of him joining the parent company of the Toronto Maple Leafs was announced last Thursday when the executive officer of the European golfing body turned 60. His appointment would witness him succeeding Cynthia Devine, the company’s current acting CEO following Michael Friisdahl, who exited in 2022.

ALSO READ – Amid Rumored Al-Rumayyan-Jay Monahan Progress, Bryson DeChambeau Makes a Blunt ‘Ego’ Confession on the Merger Limbo

Although the news of his departure painted a concerning picture for the DP World Tour and the merger as a whole, the recent reports of Monahan flying to Saudi Arabia do seem to be a relief of sorts for Pelley who had hoped for a development in the deal. What would actually entail the meeting? Well, only time will tell!

Watch This Story | Should Be Thanking Liv 3 Reasons Tiger Woods Might Listen To Greg Norman’s Demand