We continue our ongoing saga on the world of pro golf. Last week’s Masters Golf Tournament was the focal point where mavericks who jumped to the Saudi tour played alongside players who remained loyal to the US and European tours. After announcing last year that the Saudi tour was “merging” (they didn’t want to call it that), no real progress has been made. No doubt a lot has been happening behind the scenes but no apparent advancement is forthcoming. US players (especially Rory McIlroy) are clearly upset about Jay Monahan, US PGA Tour Commissioner, blindsiding him by excluding him from the Saudi negotiations. And other issues seem stubborn like access to Major tournaments, the awarding of FedEx points to qualify for big year-end money, preserving dual membership on both tours simultaneously and other questions. Recently the politicians entered the fray–as if that would help. The US Congress is investigating whether the Saudi’s are using the golf angle to somehow infiltrate our business interests. As recently as today, a rumor has started that Rory M. is considering a $900 million offer to join the Saudi’s. Many believe that Greg Norman is just trying to spite the US tour because it refused to help him launch a “world golf tour” a few years ago. While that may be true, what’s in it for the Saudi’s? It’s difficult to see how golf could represent a Saudi invasion into American business interests but maybe there’s a perspective we haven’t noticed. And finally, Trump is “tight” with the Saudi’s. Should we expect Saudi influence in the 2024 election? Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law was given $2 billion for some business venture. That ain’t hay!!! Obviously a Trump presidency would be much more cooperative from the Saudi viewpoint. Another far out comment: wouldn’t it be amazing if Trump wins the presidency because of golf? May God forbid it–we humbly pray!!!!
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