Here’s a bold statement: LIV Golf isn’t going anywhere, and it’s not just because of the money—though, let’s be honest, that’s a huge part of it. But here’s where it gets controversial: former President Donald Trump recently shared his take on why LIV Golf is here to stay, and it’s not just about the sport. In a revealing conversation with Golf Channel’s Brandel Chamblee, Trump laid out the reasons in a way that’s hard to ignore—even for LIV’s harshest critics like Chamblee himself.
The Conversation That Changed Perspectives
During an episode of the Straight Facts Homie podcast, Chamblee recounted a round of golf he played with Trump about two years ago. The topic of LIV Golf inevitably came up, and Trump didn’t hold back. ‘I know you and I disagree on LIV,’ Trump said, ‘but let me tell you why it’s going to stick around.’ And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about golf—it’s about global strategy, economic diversification, and a whole lot of oil money.
The Two Reasons LIV Golf Won’t Fade Away
Trump broke it down into two key points. First, he highlighted Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the head of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), who, according to Trump, ‘loves golf more than you and I do.’ But the real kicker? ‘They have 32 trillion dollars’ worth of oil underneath that sand,’ Trump pointed out. In other words, the Saudis aren’t just funding LIV Golf for fun—they’re using it as a tool to diversify their economy and strengthen their global influence. A professional golf tour that travels the world? That’s a perfect vehicle for achieving those goals.
The Bigger Picture: Beyond the Fairways
Here’s the thing: Trump’s insights aren’t exactly groundbreaking if you’ve been following LIV Golf. Anyone who’s paid attention knows the Saudis have deep pockets, and operating at a deficit isn’t a concern for them. But when the former President of the United States makes this case, it carries a weight that your average golf buddy’s opinion simply can’t match. It’s a reminder that LIV Golf is as much about geopolitics as it is about birdies and bogeys.
The Controversy: Is LIV Golf a Game-Changer or a Distraction?
And this is where it gets really interesting. While some see LIV Golf as a disruptive force that’s shaking up the traditional golf world, others view it as a Saudi-funded vanity project. But here’s the question: Does it matter why the Saudis are investing in LIV Golf if the end result is a new, global golf tour that’s creating opportunities for players and fans alike? Or is it impossible to separate the sport from the politics? That’s the debate Trump’s comments are sure to reignite.
What’s Next for LIV Golf?
As LIV Golf gears up for its fifth season, kicking off in Riyadh in February 2026, one thing is clear: it’s not disappearing anytime soon. Whether you love it or hate it, LIV Golf is a force to be reckoned with. And if Trump’s predictions are anything to go by, we’re only seeing the beginning of its impact on the sport—and the world.
Your Turn: What Do You Think?
Is LIV Golf a game-changer or a controversial distraction? Do the Saudis’ motivations matter, or is the focus on growing the sport enough? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take on this polarizing topic!
