Viktor Holvland is one of the biggest names on the PGA Tour, and the European Ryder Cup star has had his say on the ongoing talks with the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia
Viktor Hovland had his say on the ongoing peace talks(Image: Getty Images)
Viktor Hovland has questioned the PGA Tour’s approach to their ongoing peace talks with LIV Golf and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia.
Hovland has become one of the most popular players on the PGA Tour in recent years and has even seen his name heavily linked with a move to the LIV setup. The European Ryder Cup star opted to pledge his loyalties to the PGA Tour, and he has become the latest to have his say on the peace talks.
Despite some momentum earlier this year, both sides remain locked in negotiations with no clear vision in sight, even after the added help of President Donald Trump.
Hovland believes the Tour should have concentrated more on the circuit’s history rather than trying to financially compete with PIF. Asked what he would like to see change under the guidance of new PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp, Hovland told Fried Egg Golf: “Everything could get better for sure.
“Especially the messaging the last couple of years…certainly against LIV Tour emerging… The PGA Tour didn’t really go with the best strategy. They had leverage—historical events, tradition. They should’ve honed in on that. Playing the money game… it’s tough to compete against the Saudis.
“Back at the Travelers, it’s a great event. You remember that shot, that champion. That’s what makes the PGA Tour. That’s why people tune in.” The pressure to finally get a deal over the line will lie on the shoulders of former NFL executive Rolapp, whose appointment was confirmed last week.
His first 18 months will see him work alongside current commissioner Jay Monahan, who will then depart following the end of his current contract. When addressing the media for the first time in his new role last week, Rolapp addressed the ongoing split within the sport.
“Yeah, I think everyone is talking about that,” Rolapp said of the fractured nature of the sport. “My view is I come in with a pretty clean sheet of paper. I also come in knowing that there’s a lot to learn. Everything that works in the football world may not work in the golf world.
“When it comes to that situation, particularly, I think the fans have been pretty clear. They want to see the best golfers competing against each other. I think everybody as a golf fan. I agree with that.
“When it comes to the situation with LIV, I think that’s a complex situation that’s probably something I should learn more about before I speak. But I will say my focus is on growing the Tour, making it better, and really moving on from the position of strength that it has.”