Jack Nicklaus gives verdict on LIV/PGA Tour merger

Jack Nicklaus has weighed in on yesterday’s shock news, saying whatever is best for the game of golf has his full support.

The news of a merger between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and LIV Golf came as a shock to almost everyone in the golf world, however it appears the 18-time major champion was made aware of the news on Tuesday morning.

According to the Palm Beach Post, the 83-year-old has given his support to golf’s latest development.

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“The last three years have been difficult for the game and the players,” Nicklaus said.

“I spoke with PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan this morning. He seemed pleased with the arrangement that will once again bring together the best players in the world. I agree that this is good for the game of golf.

“I also appreciate the commissioner’s comments about continuing the tradition of the tour and the mission to support important charitable causes.

“I am certainly interested in seeing the details. Jay indicated that this all will happen in 2024, so very soon the proof will be in the pudding.

“Whatever is best for the game of golf enjoys my full support.”

The six-time Masters winner’s comments come in stark contrast to what he had to say just a matter of days ago.

While on hosting duties for his Memorial Tournament, Nicklaus, who said he turned down $100million to be the face of the Saudi-backed golf league, made his feelings clear on those who made the jump to the start-up league.

He said that he didn’t feel the likes of Open champion Cameron Smith or five-time major winner Brooks Koepka were part of the game of golf anymore.

“I don’t even consider those guys part of the game anymore,” said Nicklaus, just last week.

“I don’t mean that in a nasty way. This is a PGA Tour event, and we have the best field we can possibly have for a PGA Tour event for those who are eligible to be here.

“The other guys made a choice of what they did and where they’ve gone and we don’t even talk about it.

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“There were certain players that it was probably the right thing for.

“It probably spurred the PGA Tour, I don’t think there’s any question about that, either, to move it to greater heights. But it wasn’t for me, it wasn’t for what my legacy was. Obviously, I pretty much started what the tour is out here.”

Now, however, it seems like the man with the most major titles in the game is open to the new world of golf, whatever that might look like.