LIV Golf CEO makes feelings clear as 2.0 dream gets crushed

LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil has issued an emotional statement following the collapse of the breakaway league, bringing an end to its four-year existence.

It was officially announced earlier this week that it is ceasing operations after initial plans to launch LIV 2.0 failed to materialise. 

A $300m financial package from BC Partners Credit, who were looking to become LIV’s new investor, ultimately didn’t go through and the league is now dead.

As such, one of the most controversial chapters in the history of the sport has come to a close and the writing always looked on the wall considering some of its biggest names failed to sign up for the new era.

Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton were among those who announced they were departing LIV while reservations about the schedule, player contracts and the financial sustainability of LIV 2.0 proved to be too much.

Now, O’Neil has spoken about the league’s demise, stating that it was “fun” and “demanding” in a recent statement.

“Building a global platform designed to bring new, younger, and more diverse fans to the sport of golf has been the round of a lifetime for all of us. LIV Golf was fun, demanding, inspiring, at times challenging — but always rewarding,” said O’Neil.

“Together, our team delivered world-class individual and team competitions across five continents, built a global business, secured pathways to The Open and U.S. Open, earned Official World Golf Ranking points, engaged with stakeholders focused on the health and future of the game, created value in our teams, attracted premier sponsors, brought investors to the table around a next-generation business plan, and built a league capable of attracting both elite and rising talent from around the world.”

Scott O’Neil pays tribute to LIV players and fans

O’Neil also paid special tribute to those who played on LIV between 2022 and 2026, with major champions and Ryder Cup stars making the move to the Saudi-backed tour.

“At the heart of these achievements were our players, a global roster representing more than 20 countries, whose passion, commitment, and belief in the vision helped us build something extraordinary.

“Equally instrumental were our global partners — from governments and host communities to renowned golf courses and leading corporate brands — whose shared ambition helped bring that vision to life. 

The league also attempted something different, bringing golf to a younger audience through entertainment and concerts across each event.

“There were dynamic concert experiences, award-winning fan engagement, immersive entertainment for families, locally inspired music, food and beverage experiences celebrating the culture of each host market, innovative technology, cutting-edge broadcasts and, above all, world-class golf. We created memories that I hope will inspire a new generation of fans to follow, play, and fall in love with this great game. “

What next for LIV’s biggest stars?

Rahm, Hatton, Bryson DeChambeau and David Puig are among the biggest stars to have left LIV Golf, seeking opportunities to play elsewhere.

The PGA Tour won’t be making a decision on whether those who played on the circuit can feature until early next year, leaving the DP World Tour as a viable option.

O’Neil concluded his statement by praising Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the financial backers of the league, for their support.

“We thank our partners at the PIF for their collaboration and support, and BC Partners Credit for its engagement throughout this process,” added O’Neil.

“We are also deeply grateful to our employees, Board, advisors, and fans around the world, whose dedication, resilience, and belief made this remarkable journey possible. Golf has given so much to so many, and my hope is that those entrusted with its future will lead with the generosity, perspective, and shared purpose this extraordinary game deserves.”

LIV Golf is no more, but there is no doubt that it will continue to be dissected for years to come.