Major champ explains number one issue for lack of PGA Tour-LIV Golf deal

PGA Tour member Webb Simpson has revealed the number one reason why the North American circuit is yet to strike a deal with LIV Golf's backers. 

The PGA Tour, DP World Tour and Saudi Arabian PIF announced a framework agreement on 6 June 2023.

It could be argued that although there have been infrequent 'statements' from the Tour, there have been no meaningful updates as to what exactly the hold up is.

Rory McIlroy claimed before the Arnold Palmer Invitational that an agreement 'doesn't feel like it's any closer'.

That comment was made despite Tiger Woods' declaration that the men's game would heal quickly. 

Simpson has now told SI's Bob Harig that LIV Golf's team format is a huge stumbling block.

The former U.S. Open champion also said there is 'a little bit of a breakdown in communication'.

"On our side, when questions are asked of us, we get answers right away," he told the publication.

"We've been diligent. I don't know if the same is true on their side. That part has been kind of frustrating."

What to do with LIV Golf?

Simpson is a policy board member and is not on the transaction subcommittee that negotiates directly with representatives of PIF. 

But he believes how to approach team golf is a problem.

"To me, it's hard to get your mind around the team concept," he said. 

"I've gotten that feedback from golf fans. You can get your mind around the Ryder Cup or Presidents Cup once a year. 

"But the franchise model or Formula 1 model on the PGA Tour … it's hard to see a future in that."

Simpson said a multitude of ideas have been proposed.

"More like different points on the calendar where there is an appetite for fans to see some type of team stuff," he said.  

"Then it goes back to the idea that the beauty of a team sport is you get behind that team for the season. 

"You ride their highs and lows. Is four times a year really going to work? Will that satisfy what Yasir wants?"

Simpson was referring to LIV's chairman, mastermind and PIF governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan.

Al-Rumayyan, who is also the chairman of Premier League football club Newcastle United, has only spoken on the record about a deal with the PGA Tour once.

He did so when he appeared on national television alongside PGA Tour boss Jay Monahan to announce the framework agreement.

Other than that, there has been complete silence from the powerful Saudi businessman.

It seems unlikely that he would accept LIV reducing their schedule. 

Despite the huge stumbling block, Simpson believes there is reason for optimism. 

"It does seem like we've been in the same lace for a year," he said. "But I think it's much better."