In a move that could signal a potential thawing of relations between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, golf's civil war is set to play out in prime time with a marquee exhibition match later this year, Sarah Williams reports. I have learned from sources that World No. 1 Rory McIlroy will partner with reigning FedEx Cup champion Scottie Scheffler to take on Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka in Las Vegas this December.
The made-for-TV event between some of the games biggest names will air on TNT and promises to deliver the excitement and drama that fans of professional golf have been craving. McIlroy, who has been outspoken in his support of the PGA Tour, confirmed to Golfaq.com that he is "thrilled" to square off against DeChambeau and Koepka in what he described as a "goodwill event that brings the best together again."
The foursome feature players with established track records in "The Match" exhibition series and a wealth of intriguing subplots. McIlroy and Koepka have pushed each other to greatness as major champions, while DeChambeau edged Rory at the recent U.S. Open. And of course, Koepka and DeChambeau's past social media sparring provides an additional layer of intrigue.
This highly anticipated match could signal a warming of the chilly relationship between the PGA Tour and LIV as both sides find common ground on events that benefit the game.
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I've received confirmation from the players' representatives about their involvement in the highly anticipated match.
Blake Smith, who represents both Brooks Koepka and Scottie Scheffler, told Golfweek that his clients are "very excited" and "look forward to sharing more soon." Koepka and Scheffler seem eager to entice fans with more details about the unique showdown event.
Brooks Koepka of the United States and Scottie Scheffler shake hands during the second round of the 122nd U.S. Open Championship at The Country Club on June 17, 2022 in Brookline, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
Bryson DeChambeau's agent Brett Falkoff also confirmed the player's participation, saying DeChambeau is primed to "provide great entertainment for the fans" when competing in Las Vegas this December.
From a production standpoint, I've learned the prime-time special will be spearheaded by Bryan Zuriff's BZ Entertainment, the architect behind The Match franchise, along with new media company EverWonder Studio. While financial terms weren't disclosed, sources indicated the marquee players will receive an appearance fee rather than compete for prize money.
The PGA Tour, meanwhile, declined to comment on the event as it maintains negotiations with Saudi-backed LIV Golf. Led by Rory McIlroy, a players' committee including the current No. 1 has been handling discussions directly with LIV investors - signaling a potential willingness to find common ground between the warring circuits. With negotiations ongoing, this star-studded match could be an indicator of warmer future relations.
Bryson DeChambeau and Rory McIlroy during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club. Mandatory (Raymond Carlin III-USA TODAY Sports)
According to my sources, PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan addressed the ongoing talks with LIV Golf's financial backers during last week's Tour Championship press conference. While declining to speak publicly about specifics, Monahan indicated negotiations are continuing behind closed doors.
When asked how the PGA Tour and Saudi-funded PIF have prioritized discussions, Monahan said both sides are "really starting to talk about the future, future product vision and where we can take our sport." This suggests an openness from the tour to have a dialogue about collaborating going forward, rather than just opposing LIV Golf.
The star-studded field announced for the upcoming Las Vegas match exemplifies what can result from the top players coming together. Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka, who've pushed each other to major greatness, will be on opposite sides of this contest. It also rematch Bryson DeChambeau narrowly topping Rory at the recent U.S. Open in thrilling fashion.
Meanwhile, Scottie Scheffler solidified his place atop the world rankings this season while taking home a $25 million payday for his FedEx Cup triumph. And of course, the Koepka-DeChambeau social media saga from years past adds another fun layer of intrigue given their move to the same circuit.
This primetime event promises to be the perfect showcase for the elite talent across golf when their rivalries collide under the bright lights of Las Vegas this winter.