Golf legend Nick Price shares blunt views on LIV Golf’s struggles and player departures

In a candid revelation, former Open champion Nick Price voiced his concerns over the LIV Golf series. Funded by Saudi Arabia, LIV Golf aimed to revolutionise the sport but faces challenges in capturing fans’ attention. Despite entering its third season and securing talents like Jon Rahm and Cameron Smith, Price remains sceptical of its success.

Price, 67, a three-time major winner, shared his views on the breakaway tour’s format and appeal. LIV Golf’s 54-hole tournaments and team elements, he believes, fall short of captivating audiences. “The product they have is not very good,” Price remarked on the Bunkered podcast. His criticism extends to the tour’s inability to match the traditional appeal of the PGA Tour.

The PGA Tour, with its 72-hole competitions, continues to outshine LIV Golf in terms of viewership and financial success. In 2023, the PGA Tour’s television revenue surpassed £400 million, dwarfing LIV’s £2.4 million. This disparity highlights the struggle LIV Golf faces in attracting a wider audience.

Despite LIV Golf’s lucrative offers, Price admits he would have joined in his later career years for financial reasons. However, he disapproves of players criticising the PGA Tour upon their departure. Price believes such actions disregard the PGA Tour’s role in their careers and its status as a premier sporting organisation.

The debate over LIV Golf’s format and its impact on the sport continues, with figures like Price adding valuable perspectives. As the golfing world watches, the rivalry between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour unfolds, raising questions about the future of professional golf.