Yasir Al-Rumayyan, chairman of LIV Golf and governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), has fueled rumors of a potential golf merger after being seen alongside Donald Trump and Elon Musk at UFC 309. The event, held at Madison Square Garden, was hosted by UFC President Dana White, a known Trump supporter.
The sighting comes amid ongoing discussions between LIV Golf, the PGA Tour, and the DP World Tour, following a 2023 framework agreement aimed at resolving tensions between the tours. Trump, who has business ties with the PIF and is deeply involved in golf, recently claimed he could expedite the merger.
McIlroy, commenting on the developments, suggested that Trump’s influence and Musk’s involvement could bring a new dynamic to the negotiations. “With Musk’s intellect and Trump’s connections to Saudi Arabia and golf, it’s an intriguing possibility,” McIlroy said. However, he noted the complexities of the situation, emphasizing that as a potential future president, Trump may have larger priorities.
The sighting has left golf fans speculating whether these high-profile connections could accelerate the merger process and reshape the sport’s future.