In the wake of the possible PGA-LIV merger, there has been much discussion about what it would mean for the sport as a whole, and for the players themselves. If the merger doesn’t happen, speculations arises about the players who would ‘jump ship’ from one to the other. A few main players are at the center of that discussion. Currently, one player has risen above the rest as someone who could break LIV down if he were to return to PGA Tour. Rumors surrounding Bryson DeChambeau potentially leaving LIV Golf are swirling, with questions on how impacting that would be for LIV Golf going forward.
Why Is There Talk About Bryson DeChambeau Leaving?
These talks are coming up because of rumors about his latest contract negotiations falling through, with his contract set to expire within the next couple of years. These are only rumors, but that is only propelling speculation. Golf Journalist Ryan Lavern spoke on the Golf Channel Podcast, weighed in on the discussion:
“Bryson DeChambeau spoke Wednesday about his future, and there were some social media rumblings about whether his contract is up or not,” Lavner said.
“Did the PIF reject his number? We are not going to get into all of that, but he was asked, do you want to set the record straight, and Bryson said on the record that he was excited about his future with LIV and that it was going to grow at an exponential rate. Look, Bryson DeChambeau is an employee of LIV. I didn’t think he was going to sit up there and say that he was exploring his options right now like a disgruntled wide receiver might in a press conference. But he and Bryson DeChambeau’s reps must know that he has a lot of leverage right now.”
Clearly there is an acknowledgement that these are still rumors, but at the same time, that last line about Dechambeau having leverage is something to note.
What Does The PGA Tour Have to Gain From This?
In Lavner’s statement, he also greatly acknowledged the influence Bryson DeChambeau has on the sport. He is the reigning US Open champion, and is by far one of the most popular golfers. He has a lot of fans that are there for him. The PGA has everything to gain from Dechambeau’s return, even if it is unconfirmed at this point. LIV Golf is already having issues with finances. A major defection could be the death knell for the league on the world stage, giving PGA an extra edge with one less competitor.
What Is Bryson DeChambeau Saying?
DeChambeau has dismissed the idea of rejoining the PGA for the next season. Although he has not entirely dismissed the idea of returning to PGA. The issue of an expiring contract has also not been completely dismissed.
In an interview DeChambeau has said:
“No, I’m very excited about the future of LIV Golf. I’m very excited to be the captain of the Crushers and continue our legacy that we’re starting to create. That’s my goal is to create this lasting legacy where we impact millions and millions of golfers’ lives around the world. That should tell you everything you should know.”
At the moment he seems to be one of the players who are publicly content with his position in LIV Golf.
Bryson DeChambeau Going Forward
DeChambeau doesn’t seem to be concerned with leaving LIV Golf. If he were to do it, it would mean disaster for the league. There is a lot unknown about what is going on behind the scenes and it is only leading to more speculation and rumors. Between this and the merger talks, PGA will lose a competitor one way or another.
Main Photo Credit: © Melissa Tamez-Imagn Images
