Saudi-backed LIV Golf faces crisis as PIF pulls multi‑billion‑dollar funding

LIV Golf — the Saudi‑launched league created to challenge the PGA Tour — was hit with a seismic blow Thursday. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the financial engine behind the entire project, has informed league leadership that it will withdraw its multibillion‑dollar backing at the end of the current season, according to reports from the BBC.

The move throws the future of LIV Golf — and of its biggest stars, including Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, Phil Mickelson, and Cameron Smith — into serious doubt.

A desperate search for new investors

Per the BBC report, LIV Golf is expected to unveil a new strategic plan Thursday aimed at attracting outside investors to replace the PIF’s role. Without that cash, the league’s long‑term viability is suddenly in question.

The potential pullout is also tied to Yasir Al‑Rumayyan, the PIF governor and one of LIV’s original co‑founders in 2021. He may step down from the league’s board in the coming days or weeks, further signaling a shift in Saudi Arabia’s priorities.

Billions spent, billions lost

Since its launch in 2021, the PIF has poured more than $5 billion into LIV Golf in an effort to build a global rival to the PGA Tour. But the return on investment has been bleak. LIV has reportedly lost around $1.1 billion — and that figure only covers markets outside the United States.

With no clear path to profitability and no guaranteed rescue plan, the league is approaching a breaking point.

What will happen now to Rahm, DeChambeau, and Mickelson?

If the PIF’s exit becomes final and no major investors step in, the future of LIV’s marquee players becomes murky. Their contracts, competitive schedules, and long‑term plans could all be thrown into limbo once the season ends.

For now, LIV Golf is fighting for survival — and the clock is ticking.

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