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Donald Trump is an important figure in the negotiations between PIF and the PGA Tour. The new US president stressed during the election campaign that he is ready to help the world of golf to move in the right direction. Confirmation of this came a few days ago when Trump agreed to a meeting with PGA Tour officials and Adam Scott, open to helping the sport.
What some did not know is that Rory McIlroy had a conversation with Trump a month ago, having only positive impressions after all. Trump told Rory that he is not a big fan of the LIV format.
"It was really good," McIlroy said, as quoted by The Japan Times.
"I thought we had a good discussion. I learned he's not a fan of the LIV format. I was like, but you've hosted their events. He was like, yeah, but it doesn't mean that I like it. So I think he's on the tour's side."
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Rory McIlroy: US president has direct access to Yasir's boss
Rory has high hopes for the US president, especially since Trump has good relations with the Saudis, as well as the head of the PIF, Yasir Al-Rumayyan.
Trump is an important figure in world politics, and someone who can solve big problems in a short period of time. This is why golf officials and players have so much faith in him.
Rory is also optimistic because Donald is a person who is passionate about golf, using every moment to go to golf courses and play this sport.
"The president, he can do a lot of things. He has direct access to Yasir's boss. Not many people have that. Not many people can say, 'I want you to get this deal done, and by the way, I'm speaking to your boss, I'm going to tell him the same thing.'
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There's a few things that he can do. He can be influential. He loves the game of golf ... I think whenever he says something they listen, and I think that's a big thing."-McIlroy said.
The Northern Irishman doesn't seem optimistic that the issues can be resolved this year, but looking ahead to 2026, Rory believes there could be a point where they will play together much more.
The question is how long the negotiations will last, whether Trump will use his influence and whether both sides are willing to compromise. There are a number of factors at play that will determine the final outcome, but it is clear that impatience among fans and golfers is growing by the day.
