Dustin Johnson and a crew of over ten other LIV Golf players are reportedly making a massive push for severance payouts from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. This isn’t just some casual ask, either. As the deadline for players to commit to LIV 2.0 looms, this group wants over $100 million in what looks like one last desperate negotiation before the whole thing potentially implodes.
The Fight for Unpaid Contracts From LIV 1.0
Remember LIV Golf 1.0? Turns out it’s basically bankrupt, and a lot of players are sitting on unpaid contracts. The PIF, which was footing the bill, reportedly stopped funding the league way back in April. Their initial offer to settle those unpaid deals? A measly 2 cents on the dollar. Can you believe that? Now, Dustin Johnson, along with names like Bubba Watson and Thomas Detry, is leading a faction that’s fighting for what they believe they’re owed. David Cornwell, Johnson’s lawyer, pulled no punches, telling The Athletic that the “PIF was an honorable business partner until what we regard as its abandonment of LIV golfers.” He’s arguing these guys made “career-altering decisions” because of “repeated promises” from the PIF. It sounds like a total gut punch to these players.
LIV 2.0 Is Already on Shaky Ground
Here’s the kicker: none of the players in this Johnson-led group are expected to sign on for LIV 2.0. That’s the new iteration of the league with its new backer, BC Partners Credit. Cornwell stated, “Given their reliance on these promises, our group seeks a sensible severance payment as part of the wind-up of LIV.” He also made it crystal clear: “The decision to release potential claims against the PIF and join LIV 2.0 will be influenced largely by how the PIF manages the wind-up of LIV 1.0.” So, basically, pay up for the past, or don’t expect us in your future. The PIF, meanwhile, is reportedly viewing itself as just an equity investor who stopped investing, claiming it’s not even involved in these player conversations. Earlier this month, BC Partners did formally agree to pump $300 million into LIV Golf, but only *if* enough players commit. With a growing list of players already opting out for next year, and more expected to follow, this whole $100 million battle could sink LIV 2.0 before it even gets off the ground. What a mess.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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