LIV Golf makes major leadership announcement after lifeline

LIV Golf has appointed former TaylorMade chief executive Mark King as a senior advisor as the breakaway league continues its push to secure a new financial future ahead of the 2027 season.

After days of rumour, King's appointment was finally confirmed on Monday. 

The appointment of King as a senior advisor comes amid ongoing efforts to complete a recapitalisation deal with BC Partners Credit, which has committed initial financing to support LIV Golf's next phase.

King will advise LIV's leadership team as it works towards completing the transaction and is expected to recruit, build and serve as chairman of the league's advisory board under its proposed new structure.

LIV said it remained on track to secure the necessary support to complete the deal, with discussions over player participation continuing and preparations for the 2027 season already underway.

Former TaylorMade boss brings major business experience

King brings more than three decades of experience across golf, sports and consumer businesses, having previously served as president and CEO of TaylorMade and president of adidas North America.

During his time at TaylorMade, he oversaw significant growth, with sales increasing from $300 million to more than $1.85 billion. LIV said the company became the most profitable golf business in the world during his tenure.

His time at adidas North America also saw substantial expansion, with the company doubling its market share in less than three years and tripling sales over four years.

King has since held senior leadership roles at Taco Bell and Xponential Fitness. He is currently executive chairman and interim CEO of restaurant chain Jack in the Box.

LIV CEO Scott O'Neil welcomed the appointment, highlighting King's industry relationships and experience in building businesses.

"His deep understanding and relationships in and around the professional golf industry, combined with his expertise in driving innovation and building high-performing organizations, makes him a valuable addition as an advisor to our team at this pivotal moment," O'Neil said.

King backs LIV Golf's long-term potential

King said he believed LIV had an opportunity to become an enduring force in professional golf, pointing to its ability to attract elite players and deliver a different experience for spectators.

"Competition drives innovation, creates opportunities, and ultimately makes the entire ecosystem stronger," King said.

He praised LIV's ability to attract world-class talent, generate strong attendances across multiple continents and engage fans internationally.

King added that a renewed business model placing players at its centre could help the league build long-term value for golfers, fans and commercial partners.

BC Partners deal remains central to LIV's future

The proposed transaction with BC Partners Credit remains central to LIV's plans for 2027. 

The league said committed financing had allowed it to meet critical milestones and expressed confidence in its progress towards completing the deal.

Ted Goldthorpe, partner and head of BC Partners Credit, described King's appointment as another important step towards LIV's next era.

"His proven ability to scale businesses, unlock growth opportunities, and create lasting value will be instrumental as we work alongside the League's leadership team to execute on our shared vision," Goldthorpe said.

"We remain confident in the progress being made toward completing the Transaction and the opportunity to establish a strong foundation for LIV Golf's long-term success."

Goldthorpe's comments reinforce BC Partners' stated confidence in the process, although the transaction has yet to be completed.

LIV has also confirmed that discussions with players over participation in the future league remain underway, making their commitments a key part of securing the proposed deal.

King's appointment adds significant commercial experience to LIV's leadership as it attempts to establish a more sustainable business model. 

With the 2027 season already in preparation, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether the league can finalise its financial restructuring, secure sufficient playing talent and establish a long-term position in professional golf.