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Westwood worried for DP World Tour after LIV collapse
Lee Westwood says LIV Golf’s planned closure may leave the DP World Tour in a weaker position, despite the collapse being seen as a boost for the PGA Tour. He fears the US circuit could use its financial support to demand more from its European partner, raising questions about the DP World Tour’s future.
LIV said it would wind down after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund withdrew support and prospective investors abandoned a deal. The tours extended their strategic alliance in July; the PGA Tour paid £59m in annual investment payments last year and offers cards to the DP World Tour’s top 10 eligible finishers. Westwood, currently without a tour, also pointed to limited announced prize funds for 2027 and uncertainty over the partnership from 2028.
In short
- Westwood doubts LIV’s collapse will benefit the DP World Tour.
- The PGA Tour paid £59m to its European partner last year.
- Prize funds and the tours’ future alliance remain uncertain.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
LIV’s collapse could strengthen the PGA Tour’s hand in its alliance with the DP World Tour, leaving the European circuit more dependent on its US partner for investment and playing opportunities. Westwood’s concern is that this imbalance may bring tougher terms, while uncertainty about future funding and prize funds could make it harder for the DP World Tour to plan and protect its standing.
The case against
The PGA Tour’s financial support and access to playing cards may help the DP World Tour sustain competition and offer its players routes to the US circuit. LIV’s closure could also reduce competition for players and investment, giving the tours a chance to build a more stable partnership; the reported payments and existing opportunities offer grounds to see the alliance as support rather than simply a source of pressure.