The DP World Tour was reportedly meant to be destroyed – at least, that's the assessment of Tour CEO Guy Kinnings, who learned from insiders that LIV Golf had made available over 7 billion US dollars for it. A stark accusation that shows how far the battle for supremacy in professional golf truly went and what scars it leaves behind. What long seemed like an open exchange of blows was apparently a merciless war behind the scenes.
Kinnings speaks of a targeted strategy to completely remove the European Tour from play. The plan? To put so much money on the table that the DP World Tour could no longer compete. LIV reportedly squandered over 7 billion US dollars with this objective, according to the Tour boss's information. The DP World Tour was already struggling with the pandemic, war, and a collapse in media rights, all while trying to build a sustainable business.
The Tours' Fistfight
Now the DP World Tour is tightening the screws: players who want to participate in the planned LIV 2.0 Tour in 2027 must choose. No more dual memberships. Stars like Jon Rahm, Tyrrell Hatton, and Sergio García have already jumped ship or are considering leaving LIV. LIV's financial future is also uncertain; the Public Investment Fund has reportedly ended long-term financing beyond 2026, and LIV is undergoing Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. Rumors of a scaled-back LIV version with less prize money and player involvement are already circulating.
Ryder Cup and the Future
For 2027, the DP World Tour wants to protect its loyal members. Kinnings makes it clear: those who previously left will face tough conditions if they want to rejoin. These membership rules also have drastic consequences for the Ryder Cup: anyone who is not a DP World Tour member or does not meet the participation requirements cannot lead the team as a European Captain or Vice-Captain in the future. The power struggle has completely overturned the golf ecosystem and set the course for a new era.
