Two pros from two different leagues shared their views on LIV Golf and the PGA Tour, without turning it personal. 

It all started on January 20 when Graeme McDowell shared a take on X about LIV Golf’s role for young players, saying the league can serve as a pathway because it offers pay, mentorship from established Tour names, and a guaranteed schedule. 

McDowell also added that reaching the PGA Tour is becoming harder, and many talented players never get the chance to make it through.

Replying to that, 2018 John Deere Classic winner Michael S. Kim said he understands the point, but he believes the PGA Tour works on merit, and if a player is good enough, he will earn his way onto the Tour.

The 2025 joint runner-up at LIV Virginia, McDowell, replied that he agrees the PGA Tour is still the top tour to play right now.

However, he said the path to reach it is getting narrower, which makes breaking in harder than staying there. 

McDowell added that golf is one of the few sports where top young players are not always guaranteed a chance on the biggest stage, so alternative pathways still matter. 

Because of that, he sees LIV as another option for the next generation, offering early money and a set schedule to compete.

LIV Golf has been a point of debate since it launched in 2022, with players and fans split over what it represents and where it fits in the sport.

PGA Tour pros who have raised concerns about LIV Golf

Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods were among the strongest voices against LIV Golf in its early phase, with both players taking part in meetings and backing the PGA Tour’s response. 

McIlroy also questioned players who left after previously committing to the Tour, arguing that their decisions could block opportunities for others, and he later suggested LIV had not recently signed players who change the sport’s pull.

Keith Mitchell has raised concerns about LIV’s impact on golf’s wider financial system, saying the money involved could affect sponsors and, in turn, prize funds on the PGA Tour.

Lucas Glover has also taken a direct stance on the issue, saying he does not want LIV players returning to the PGA Tour. 

In Glover's view, those who chose another route should not be allowed back to compete for spots and opportunities that could otherwise go to younger players.

While opinions remain sharply divided, the civil tone between McDowell and Kim stood out. But who do you agree with?

Written by

Aditi Singh

Edited by

Joyita Das