LIV Golf filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy this week, turning the golf world upside down, but Lee Westwood is speaking candidly about the controversial league's potential future. Far from an immediate demise, the move signals a radical restructuring under creditor protection to forge a 'LIV 2.0'. Despite the uncertainty, Westwood himself remains open to a future with LIV and wants to wait and see what the new model looks like.
The key issue: Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has financed LIV until now, is withdrawing its direct support. Instead, BC Partners are stepping in as new financiers, and the PIF is still providing $49.6 million as Debtor-in-Possession financing. The vision? A league that, starting in 2027, is intended to be majority-owned by the players. With estimated assets between $100 and $500 million compared to liabilities of $500 million to $1 billion, it's clear this transformation will be no cakewalk.
Westwood's Poker Face and the Player Question
Westwood, one of LIV's most prominent figures, is not being rattled. He reiterates that he still appreciates the team format and shorter schedule, and will only make a decision after a thorough review of the new ownership model. He anticipates that some current golfers will remain, while others will depart. He's putting on a true poker face, as uncertainty over the 2027 player rosters hangs like a sword of Damocles over the league. Rory McIlroy has also commented that this could mean the end for some players.
The Future on the Tee
LIV is attempting to reinvent itself here – as a more sustainable, player-led operation. However, the bankruptcy means that much for 2027 is still completely open: from the player rosters and the tournament schedule to player contracts. All that remains is to wait and tee it up to see if this risky rescue attempt ultimately succeeds.
