Tom McKibbin Stands Firm on LIV Golf Decision Amid Funding Concerns
Tom McKibbin remains resolute in his decision to join LIV Golf, expressing that he has "no regrets at all" despite recent funding challenges. This comes after the Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced it would withdraw its financial support at the end of the year. The 23-year-old from Northern Ireland made the choice to decline his PGA Tour card, which he secured in late 2024, to join Jon Rahm's Legion XIII LIV team last year. Speaking ahead of this week's US PGA Championship at Aronimink, McKibbin emphasized his satisfaction with the breakaway circuit and the opportunities it has provided him. He stated, "The last year and a half has been great. Getting to spend time with Jon [Rahm] and Tyrrell [Hatton] has been invaluable." Despite the shock regarding the funding announcement, McKibbin expressed optimism about the future of LIV Golf under the leadership of Scott O'Neil, LIV Golf CEO. He commented, "Hopefully going forward he'll be able to find some funding elsewhere and hopefully let it continue. The events are great, the setup is great, and I've really enjoyed it." McKibbin is focused on his upcoming sixth major championship appearance, having previously tied for 50th in his debut at Quail Hollow and missed the cut in his first Masters appearance last month. While he has yet to secure an individual victory on the LIV circuit, he believes that competing on challenging courses will enhance his skills. "They're very different tests of golf compared to normal weeks. All the ones I have played have had their unique challenges," he noted, highlighting the varying difficulties of venues like Pinehurst and the Open.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-05-13