Tiger Woods Gives PGA Tour Players The Backing Needed In Saudi Talks

Tiger Woods still hasn’t spoken publicly since professional golf’s bombshell merger agreement was announced on June 6. 

But the most popular golfer in the world is still pledging his full support to PGA Tour players as they adapt to the merger with LIV Golf and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. Woods is joining the PGA Tour policy board for the first time, a move signifying an even stronger power shift in favor of Tour players after many lost trust in commissioner Jay Monahan. 

Woods made a statement in the move’s official announcement, but other than a tweet to deny a faulty report about his previous role in the saga, he hasn’t voiced his opinion on the situation.

Forty-one players gave their support for the addition of Woods, who will help determine a board replacement for Randall Stephenson — the former AT&T CEO who resigned over the Saudi deal. Woods’ presence at future meetings can only boost morale and increase Tour players’ leverage.

During practice rounds at the Wyndham Championship in Greensboro, North Carolina, multiple players from two-time major champion Justin Thomas to veterans like Charley Hoffman voiced their excitement for Woods’ new role. “He wants to continue to see the PGA Tour grow and succeed,” Thomas said.

The Tour is set to release its 2024 schedule on Aug. 8 and has set a Dec. 31 deadline to finalize a definitive agreement with the PIF.