Tiger Woods trashes LIV format; PGA Tour’s New CEO delivers a surprising take

Beneficial changes may soon modernize golf

Tiger Woods of Jupiter Links Golf Club waves to fans as he is introduced at the start/LAPRESSE

Golf is a deeply traditional sport, guided by a longstanding set of customs and rules that define its spirit. That’s why Tiger Woods, one of the game’s greatest icons, has been openly critical of LIV Golf, a tour that in his view does not meet the basic standards that define the game.

Here it’s very simple,”… “Some of the stuff I’ve seen in LIV… I couldn’t figure out what the hell was going on.”

Differing views between Tiger and the PGA CEO

While Tiger Woods has expressed concern about LIV Golf’s approach, PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp offered a more nuanced perspective. In a recent interview with Golf Channel, Rolapp acknowledged the value of tradition in golf, but also indicated openness to change and innovation within the sport.

I think the PGA Tour product is strong as it is. Look at the underlying viewership numbers, um, they’ve grown this year significantly,

Rolapp noted.

And the numbers support his optimism. From the Mexico Open to the Houston Open, PGA Tour events averaged 2.2 million viewers, marking a 10% increase over the same period last year.

When looking at the overall rise in viewership-excluding the 2025 Championship, which was postponed due to weather-ratings are up 18%. That suggests a very clear message: fans are tuning in to golf, and they are increasingly enthusiastic about the PGA Tour.

One of the reasons why I took this job is I really studied that fan engagement… They’re pulling three to four million viewers… the product it’s working and I think that the golf fans are voting with their remotes.

Rolapp added.

These numbers rival those of Major League Baseball and the NHL, especially on Sundays-the decisive day in golf tournaments. The implication is that PGA Tour events are becoming appointment viewing for sports fans, steadily gaining ground in a crowded entertainment market.

Though golf may not yet be a sport for the masses, its growth is undeniable. This momentum is good news for loyal fans and newcomers alike, and it hints at even greater reach in the years to come.

Meanwhile, Tiger Woods continues his recovery from a lingering injury. While sidelined, he’s remained deeply involved in the sport-frequently accompanying his son to tournaments, offering advice, and passing on the knowledge he once received from his own father.

As the game evolves and newer generations emerge, Tiger’s legacy continues-not just in the record books, but now through mentorship. It’s his son’s turn to shine on the greens, with one of the greatest guiding his path.