The merger between PGA Tour and LIV Golf last year sparked outrage among PGA Tour players who felt their loyalty had been betrayed. In response, the Tour announced that golfers would be rewarded for their allegiance, and the reward has now been revealed as equity stakes in the Tour.
According to reports, around 193 eligible players will receive equity stakes in the newly formed PGA Tour Enterprises, the result of a $3 billion collaboration between PGA Tour and SSG. As part of the deal with SSG, players were promised the opportunity to hold over $1.5 billion in future equity.
This division of the equity stakes will be based on four groups, taking into account factors such as career performance and PIP results. The top 36 players, including Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, will receive a combined $750 million, based on career points accrued through tour tenure, Tour Championship appearances, PGA Tour victories, and points from signature events.
The remaining players will be divided into three additional groups: Group two (64 players) will receive $75 million, Group three (57 players) will receive $30 million, and Group four (36 players) will receive $75 million.
The distribution is intended to reward those who have remained loyal to the PGA Tour, as players who defected to LIV Golf will not be eligible for the equity stakes. The move is seen as a way to strengthen the Tour and appease players who were dissatisfied with the merger decision.
