President Trump has taken significant steps to intervene in the negotiations between the PGA Tour and the Saudi-backed LIV Golf league, which may ultimately benefit his family's golf courses. On Thursday, he hosted key negotiators at the White House for the second time this month, including PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan, LIV Chairman Yasir al-Rumayyan, and golf legend Tiger Woods.
The meeting highlighted a pattern of potential conflicts of interest, as Mr. Trump's involvement could yield substantial benefits for his family's golf business. Trump-controlled properties could once again host major golf events, potentially generating millions in revenue and enhancing the family's prestige within the sport. The Department of Justice may need to evaluate whether a deal would hinder competition within the U.S. market.
During a Black History Month reception, Mr. Trump expressed enthusiasm for the discussions, calling them "interesting" but refrained from providing further details. This meeting marked at least the third engagement between Mr. Trump and Mr. al-Rumayyan within 16 days, which raises questions about the frequency and nature of their interactions.
Although the Saudi wealth fund did not provide comments on the recent meeting, Mr. al-Rumayyan characterized it as "good." In contrast, PGA Tour representatives described the session as constructive and indicated a commitment to expedite negotiations with the Saudis.
Ethics experts note Mr. Trump's actions blur the lines between personal financial interests and his official responsibilities, as previous presidents have avoided conflicts of interest despite being exempt from certain laws. The Trump Organization, helmed by his sons, manages family golf courses but has stated that Mr. Trump will not interfere in daily operations or contracts with foreign governments.
Concerns persist regarding the implications of a potential agreement for the public interest, especially as the Trump Organization stands to gain significantly from the resolution of tensions between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. Furthermore, the Saudi wealth fund's investments in broader Trump family ventures amplify these ethical considerations.
Mr. Trump has actively supported the LIV Golf initiative, downplaying concerns regarding Saudi human rights issues and framing the investment as beneficial for the sport. This follows a previous announcement of a truce in June 2023 between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, which had faced challenges due to antitrust scrutiny under the current administration.
As discussions progress, it remains uncertain whether LIV will continue as an independent entity or if it will be absorbed into the PGA Tour structure. PGA Tour officials have acknowledged Mr. Trump's influential role in the negotiation efforts and expressed hopes for the return of PGA events to Trump properties.