PGA Tour Chief Jay Monahan’s Desperate Plea for a Do-Over After LIV Deal Fiasco

PGA Tour Chief Jay Monahan’s Desperate Plea for a Do-Over After LIV Deal Fiasco

In a candid interview with Golfweek, PGA Tour policy board member Joe Ogilvie revealed that PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan is desperate for a “one-year mulligan” after mishandling the controversial peace deal with LIV Golf’s Saudi backers. Ogilvie, a former PGA Tour winner, shared insights into Monahan’s struggles and the fallout from the June 6, 2023, announcement that shook the golf world.

A Rocky Rollout: Monahan’s Battle with LIV Golf

Monahan’s troubles began when he appeared on national television with LIV chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan to announce a ‘framework agreement’ with the breakaway tour’s backers. The announcement enraged many PGA Tour members, leading to calls for Monahan’s resignation. High-profile golfers like Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele publicly expressed their discontent, with McIlroy’s explicit reaction captured by Netflix cameras and Schauffele joining the chorus of those demanding Monahan step down. Even the usually reserved Tiger Woods couldn’t hide his anger, emphasizing that Monahan’s days of secret deals were over: “That can’t happen again,” Woods stated last November.

https://x.com/albert_octavius/status/1695944000044413269?t=OatLoZB9VkAKC_vArtyLrg&s=19

The Fallout: Health Struggles and Member Reactions

The stress of the situation took a severe toll on Monahan, leading him to take a medical leave of absence. Upon his return, he acknowledged the immense pressure but asserted his commitment to the job, dismissing any notions of resignation. Ogilvie noted that Monahan’s handling of the rollout left him “on the back foot,” but expressed confidence in Monahan’s resilience: “Jay is a survivor,” he said. Ogilvie praised Monahan’s ability to engage with sponsors and players, highlighting his respect within the organization despite the turbulent period.

The Road to Redemption: Winning Back Trust

Interestingly, Ogilvie pointed out that the initial outrage among players has gradually transformed into support for Monahan. “The players over time went from, ‘Let’s get rid of this guy’ to ‘This is the guy who’s gonna lead us,'” Ogilvie explained. He lauded Monahan’s personal skills and ability to connect one-on-one with players, suggesting that Monahan might even earn a ‘Comeback Player of the Year’ award for his efforts to navigate the crisis.

Support from Within: Ogilvie’s Backing of Monahan

Despite the controversy, Ogilvie remains a staunch supporter of Monahan, emphasizing his respect within the broader golf community and among leaders of the game. “He’s got the respect of other leaders of the game and I think he’s got the respect of the PIF,” Ogilvie asserted.

As Monahan continues to steer the PGA Tour through these turbulent times, his ability to rebuild trust and lead the organization forward will be closely watched. The fallout from the LIV deal may have been severe, but with the backing of key figures like Ogilvie, Monahan is determined to prove he is still the right man for the job.