With the aftermath of the shocking PGA Tour – LIV Golf merger still lingering, the US golfing body has announced Tiger Woods as a Board Member of its player-led division.
Woods becomes the sixth player, alongside Patrick Cantlay, Charley Hoffman, Peter Malnati, Rory McIlroy and Webb Simpson on the TOUR Policy Board, joined by five independent Directors and the PGA of America Director.
The TOUR Policy Board, which is entitled ‘for the players, by the players’, aims to “uphold the TOUR’s core principles and ask that certain steps be taken immediately”, with PGA Commissioner Jay Monahan agreeing to support the players and their requests.
Woods stated: “I am honoured to represent the players of the PGA TOUR. This is a critical point for the TOUR, and the players will do their best to make certain that any changes that are made in TOUR operations are in the best interest of all TOUR stakeholders, including fans, sponsors and players.
“The players thank Commissioner Monahan for agreeing to address our concerns, and we look forward to being at the table with him to make the right decisions for the future of the game that we all love. He has my confidence moving forward with these changes.”
Much of the PGA’s and Monahan’s efforts behind the player-led organisation stems from backlash from tour players, most notably Woods and McIlroy, for alienating them by agreeing to merge with LIV Golf behind their backs.
The TOUR Policy Board aims to address the concerns of players through cooperation alongside the PGA Commissioner.
The PGA announced that Player Directors on the board will “have full transparency and the authority to approve, or to decline to approve, any potential changes to the TOUR as part of the framework agreement discussions”.
Speaking on Woods’ inclusion, Commissioner Monahan stated: “Tiger’s voice and leadership throughout his career have contributed immeasurably to the success of the PGA TOUR, and to apply both to our governance and go-forward plan at this crucial time is even more welcomed and impactful,” said Monahan.
“I am committed to taking the necessary steps to restore any lost trust or confidence that occurred as a result of the surprise announcement of our Framework Agreement.
“My job in the negotiations – in partnership with our Player Directors, PAC and the broader membership – is to advocate for what is best for the PGA TOUR members today and in the future. Any agreement we reach must be shaped by our members’ input and approval earned through our Player Directors.”
