In a stunning revelation, Tiger Woods has claimed that LIV golfers could make a sensational return to the PGA Tour as early as this year, thanks to the direct involvement of former President Donald Trump in the sport’s unification talks. The 15-time major champion’s comments signal a potential breakthrough in the fractured state of elite golf since the controversial launch of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit in 2022.
Woods, speaking to CBS during the final round of the Genesis Invitational, revealed that Trump recently met with PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan and board member Adam Scott at the White House. While Woods was unable to attend due to personal circumstances, he expressed optimism about the progress made during the high-profile gathering.
I think we’re in a very positive place right now. We had a meeting with the President… I think that things are going to heal quickly. We’re going to get this game going in the right direction.
– Tiger Woods
A Shift in Stance
Woods’s sentiment marks a significant departure from his previous commentary, which prioritized the interests of the PGA Tour over the broader world of golf. His openness to the idea of LIV players rejoining the PGA Tour and vice versa suggests a newfound willingness to bridge the divide that has plagued the sport in recent years.
The involvement of former President Trump is seen as a key factor in potentially expediting the unification process. With his return to the White House, Trump’s influence on the U.S. Department of Justice could prove pivotal in navigating the complex legal and regulatory landscape surrounding deals between American organizations and Saudi Arabia.
Personal Tragedy Amidst Professional Turmoil
Woods’s revelations come amidst a difficult personal period, following the passing of his mother, Kultida, on February 4th. Despite the tremendous loss, the golfing icon expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from his fellow players and the wider golfing community.
Mom was my rock. Tough process to go through but I’ve had amazing family support. All the players have reached out that were playing here this week. The amount of texts and emails and nice messages of support I got has really helped and has really meant a lot to me.
– Tiger Woods
An Uncertain Future
As for his own playing ambitions in 2025, Woods remained vague. Originally slated to compete at the Genesis Invitational before his mother’s passing, attention now shifts to his potential participation in the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Players Championship, and the upcoming Masters Tournament in April.
Meanwhile, rising star Ludvig Åberg claimed victory at the Genesis Invitational, edging out Maverick McNealy by a single stroke. Åberg’s triumph continues a strong start to the year for European players on the PGA Tour, hinting at an exciting season ahead.
A New Era on the Horizon
As the golfing world eagerly awaits further developments in the unification talks, Tiger Woods’s revelations offer a glimmer of hope for a sport that has been mired in controversy and division. With the influential backing of former President Trump and the apparent willingness of key stakeholders to come together, the stage may be set for a historic reconciliation between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf.
Should Woods’s predictions come to fruition, golf fans could witness a remarkable reunion of the game’s top talents, ushering in a new era of competition and excitement. As the discussions continue behind closed doors, the golfing community holds its breath, hoping that the wounds of the past can be healed and that the sport can emerge stronger than ever before.
