Sam Stevens is chasing his first major title at the PGA Championship. While competing at Aronimink, the rising star also shared his honest stance on the ongoing trend of LIV Golfers trying to make their way back to the tour.

The Oklahoma State product believes the golf industry would be better if the world's best were playing for the same trophies. He hopes for a unified circuit soon.

"I wasn't even on tour when they all left," Stevens told The Mirror US. He also welcomed the ones planning to return to the tour indirectly, saying, "So I'm not too jaded or anything. It's great for the Tour if all the best players were playing together again."

The 29-year-old earned his PGA Tour card after the 2022 split. Consequently, he lacks the personal animosity that some veteran players still hold toward those who joined the rival league.

Stevens addressed the situation, noting that the PIF has officially pulled funding following the 2026 season. This leaves many players on the Saudi-backed circuit with a questionable future.

The young pro believes that reuniting the fractured fields is the only way to restore the game's elite competitive spirit and ensure that every major tournament feels truly complete for the fans.

"From my perspective, if everyone can get back playing together, that would be great for the PGA tour and great for the tournament, so hopefully create a little more excitement around golf again."

As Stevens progresses towards tackling the difficult courses at Aronimink, his mindset continues to center on the competitive value of having a collective leaderboard where each win is measured against all the best in the world.

Seeking Unified Competition at Aronimink 

The third-generation professional is currently ranked 49th in the world and has remained consistent all year. He understands that the field's strength determines the trophy's prestige.

Stevens is coming off incredible finishes this season, including a fifth-place finish at the Texas Children's Houston Open. He now looks forward to competing against Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler.

While officials "iron out how that's gonna happen," Stevens has his eye set on his ball-striking performance. For him, playing alongside some of the best players on courses like Aronimink brings the needed excitement to the game. 

The star noted that even two-time major winners like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau face uncertain futures without a certified pathway back. Their absence from regular Tour events remains a major talking point.

Stevens wants to prove by his results at the tournament this week that he is worthy enough to play on the highest level, regardless of the tour. He remains optimistic that a resolution will bring the world's top talent back to the same tee boxes.

The fate of the merger remains uncertain as the 2026 season reaches its peak. Fans and players alike are now waiting for a final decision that could change professional golf forever.

Do you agree with Stevens' take that LIV Golf associates should be allowed to rejoin the tour, given the league's situation?

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Written by

Abhishek Sharma

Edited by

Souvik Roy