Report: Augusta National, USGA and PGA of America involved in DOJ LIV Golf probe

Augusta National, the United States Golf Association [USGA] and the PGA of America are reportedly involved in the Department of Justice's ongoing probe over whether or not the PGA Tour engaged in "anticompetitive behaviour" against the LIV Golf series. 

This news was first reported by the Wall Street Journal on Wednesday. 

The publication were also the first to break the news about the probe in July, citing sources familiar with the matter. 

Related: Anthony Kim brought into LIV Golf's legal fight against PGA Tour

But this news will demonstrate the DOJ's investigation is wider than originally thought as three major governing bodies have come under scrutiny. 

According to the publication, players' agents have been asked "about the Tour's bylaws as they pertain to players' participation in non-PGA Tour events, and the Tour's actions relating to LIV Golf." 

The publication further states that Augusta National have already handed over documents to the justice department. 

Court documents previously suggested Fred Ridley, the Augusta National chairman, had personally instructed players not to join the LIV Golf series. 

Augusta National reportedly declined to comment on the matter, as did the USGA and PGA of America.

It was also reported that the PGA of America are also under scrutiny. 

Seth Waugh, who is the chief executive of the PGA of America, was quoted as saying he "did not believe LIV Golf was good for the game" in July before Justin Thomas claimed the second major of his career at Southern Hills. 

The aforementioned Ridley remain tight-lipped on LIV Golf during his annual press conference before the 86th Masters. 

The only thing Ridley was willing to divulge was that Phil Mickelson was not disinvited from playing. 

Mickelson, you are likely aware, took a break from the game after his controversial comments about the PGA Tour and working with LIV Golf were published by The Firepit Collective's Alan Shipnuck. 

Similarly, USGA chairman Mike Whan has expressed similar negativity about LIV Golf. 

Asked if it was going to become harder and harder for LIV Golf players to qualify for the major in June, he said: "Yes". 

Originally, 11 players were named in an antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour. 

Only three players -  Bryson DeChambeau, Peter Uihlein and Matt Jones - remain involved in the legal action. 

Related: Phil Mickelson applauded at LIV Golf Miami press conference

LIV Golf previously added themselves as a plaintiff, which prompted Mickelson to drop out. 

A tentative date for summary judgment in the initial antitrust case is set for July 23, 2023, where the tour will likely seek to dismiss the case.

The trial is expected to be heard in January 2024. 

Subscribe to our YouTube channel

Watch one of our videos: