Bryson DeChambeau has stated that he would focus on his YouTube channel should LIV Golf fail to survive, as the future of the Saudi-backed breakaway circuit remains uncertain. The two-time major champion made these remarks during the LIV Golf Virginia event at Trump National Golf Club near Washington.
Uncertain Future for LIV Golf
The future of LIV Golf is in doubt after Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced plans to withdraw financing at the end of the year, having spent more than $5.4 billion on the venture since 2022. DeChambeau admitted he was shocked by the PIF's decision, noting that just months earlier he had been told funding was secured until 2032.
DeChambeau's Backup Plan
DeChambeau, who has an exemption to play in golf's four major events for at least another two years, does not have a guaranteed place elsewhere if LIV collapses. However, he has already considered his options. "If we don't find a solution, for me I think it's really enticing, depending on what everybody says on the [PGA] Tour and what they're going to strike me with as a penalty," he said. "From my perspective, I'd love to grow my YouTube channel three times, maybe even more. I'd love to do a bunch of dubbing in different languages, giving the world more reason to watch YouTube. And then I'd love to play tournaments that want me."
Contract Concerns
When asked whether he was concerned about LIV paying out his contract, which expires next year, DeChambeau responded, "Your guess is as good as mine." He joined LIV Golf in June 2022 on a reported $125 million contract that ends this season.
Criticism of PGA Tour
DeChambeau last week denied reports that he had started talks about a possible return to the PGA Tour, calling them "completely untrue." He also criticized the PGA Tour, saying, "The [PGA Tour] isn't doing great either. Let's be honest about the situation. They've got the media. They've got everybody on the side that helps pump it up but they're reducing field sizes, cutting employees and restructuring their business too."
Legal Background
DeChambeau was among 11 golfers who sued the PGA Tour in 2022, alleging unfair suspension of players who joined LIV Golf through monopoly power. He withdrew from the federal lawsuit in May 2023.
Call for Unity
DeChambeau suggested that the two circuits need to work together to revive men's professional golf. "The egos need to get dropped," he said. "Everybody needs to come in with a level-headed playing field, with an opportunistic mindset to grow the game of golf. That's why I came over here. That's why I do what I do on YouTube."
