Fri Nov 08 09:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Trump and Musk Could Bring Peace to Golf, Says McIlroy
**Abu Dhabi, UAE** – Rory McIlroy, currently in Abu Dhabi for the HSBC Championship, believes a Donald Trump presidency could finally bring an end to the divisive feud between the PGA Tour and the Saudi-funded LIV Golf. Speaking to reporters, the world number three suggested that Trump, along with tech mogul Elon Musk, could play a key role in negotiating a peace deal.
McIlroy’s comments come amidst ongoing negotiations between the PGA Tour and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), the entity behind LIV Golf. A proposed deal, first unveiled in June 2023, aims to unify the two tours but faces opposition from the US Department of Justice due to potential antitrust concerns.
McIlroy believes that Trump, known for his close ties to Saudi Arabia and his passion for golf, could leverage his influence to overcome these hurdles. He further emphasized the potential role of Musk, whom he considers “the smartest man in the world.”
“I think from the outside looking in, it’s probably a little less complicated than it actually is,” McIlroy said, expressing optimism about the potential for a resolution.
The golf world has been eagerly awaiting news of the unification deal, with rumors circulating about a $1 billion agreement that would see Saudi Arabia taking a stake in the PGA Tour. However, industry sources have cautioned against premature celebrations, citing the complex antitrust issues that remain unresolved.
McIlroy, a member of the PGA Tour’s “transaction committee,” expects to be briefed by tour commissioner Jay Monahan this week on the latest developments. He is also preparing for the HSBC Abu Dhabi Championship, where a victory would secure him the Race to Dubai title for the third consecutive year.
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