LIV Golf faces an uncertain operational future after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund confirmed plans to withdraw its funding at the end of the 2026 season, according to a statement released in April. Despite the impending financial shift, Scott O’Neil announced on Wednesday that the league has secured new investment, though the identities of the backers remain unreleased. The development arrives as players defend the tour’s current ecosystem against widespread social media criticism.
Thomas Detry Defends LIV Golf Amid Social Media Criticism
Belgian golfer Thomas Detry, who joined LIV Golf ahead of the 2026 season, has hit out at what he termed “outrageous comments” from online fans and media outlets. Detry won the WM Phoenix Open in 2025 and earned eligibility for PGA Tour Signature Events before making his switch. Returning to the PGA Tour now would require him to start from the bottom, but the golfer expressed contentment with his decision in an interview with Beyond The Clubhouse.
“The communication is what it is. I mean it all gets blown out so quickly on social media,” Detry said to Beyond The Clubhouse. “There was one little rumor being spread and every single media outlet just takes it out of context and promotes it, so as an outsider, it’s really tough for a neutral person that doesn’t really understand the ecosystem out here to really understand really what’s happening.”
Player Perspective on Tournament Experiences
Detry emphasized that external narratives sharply contrast with the on-site reality experienced by competitors. According to the Belgian player, every person who attends a LIV event in person leaves with a positive impression.
“Everybody who has a negative opinion on it has never been to an event,” Detry stated via Beyond The Clubhouse. “I have not met one person yet who has been to a LIV event physically and come out of it disappointed. All the people who have been to LIV events have really enjoyed it and say it’s fantastic.”
Future Outlook and Financial Landscape
While fresh capital has entered the organization via the newly announced investment shared by Scott O’Neil, long-term questions persist regarding how the league will operate post-2027. Observers expect potential purse decreases once the Public Investment Fund’s direct backing concludes, which could influence player commitments and roster stability.
For now, Detry remains focused on the immediate schedule. “I haven’t really thought about it too much,” Detry told Beyond The Clubhouse regarding his long-term future. “Again I’ve got full trust in this process. The product is great. I love every single event. I’ve had so much fun.” He added that he plays day by day and intends to finish the season on the DP World Tour once LIV commitments conclude.
Did You Know?
Thomas Detry secured a victory at the WM Phoenix Open in 2025, granting him status in PGA Tour Signature Events before his transition to LIV Golf for the 2026 campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Thomas Detry join LIV Golf?
Thomas Detry joined LIV Golf ahead of the 2026 season, following a victory at the 2025 WM Phoenix Open.
Who confirmed the withdrawal of Public Investment Fund support?
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund released a statement in April confirming they would withdraw funding at the end of the 2026 season.
Has LIV Golf secured new financial backing?
Yes. According to an announcement made by Scott O’Neil on Wednesday, LIV Golf has received new investment, though the identities of the investors have not been disclosed.
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