The PIF and LIV Golf partnership is over. However, LIV Golf is pursuing new global investors and has retained Ducera Partners LLC as its investment banking advisor.

After spending over $5 billion in the league, the PIF announced on Thursday that from next season onwards, they wouldn’t be funding the rebel tour. LIV entrusts Ducera with the responsibility of securing a new long-term investment partner for the tour.

"This league has proven its value, and our focus now is on building the right financial foundation for the long term," said Scott O'Neil, CEO of LIV Golf, per the official LIV Golf website.

"Mike and the Ducera team bring deep transaction experience and a track record of delivering in complex, high-stakes situations. They are the right partner for this process." he added.

Ducera, founded in 2015, has been a leading investment bank. With advice on transactions over $850 billion, LIV Golf has every reason to believe in the organization led by CEO Michael Kramer.

LIV Golf’s new era will witness a shift towards a more diversified and multi-partner investment model. Ducera’s link with multiple industries like media, entertainment, and sports makes it an ideal pick for the rebel tour.

“LIV Golf has built something that is hard to replicate: a global league with a growing fan base, world-class talent, and a team structure that benefits captain, players, and fans alike,” said Kramer. 

LIV Golf changed the course of golf after its inception, as it attracted PGA stars with lucrative deals, along with hosting golf events that had an entirely different atmosphere than those of the PGA.

However, now, things have changed for the worse. With the PIF backing out and marquee players like Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed leaving, LIV will be desperate for new sponsors and a change in its structure.

PIF’s Decision To Back Out

The PIF’s decision does not entirely come as a surprise.

Since LIV Golf Mexico and the emergency meeting in Manhattan, rumours had already spread regarding PIF’s decision to back out.

"The substantial investment required by LIV Golf over the long term is no longer compatible with the current phase of the PIF's investment strategy," the PIF said in its statement on Thursday. 

The PIF further stated that “the decision was made based on the PIF's investment priorities and current macroeconomic dynamics.”

Now, LIV Golf will try to find a way to sustain itself as well as hold on to marquee players like Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm, who are under lucrative contracts.

What are your thoughts on LIV’s decision to stick with Ducera? Let us know in the comments.

Read more at Club Golf!

Written by

Avishek Sarkar

Edited by

Surjo Ray