Entertainment

McIlroy & Scheffler to face DeChambeau & Koepka in TV contest

Published

5 months ago

September 5, 2024

PGA Tour players Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler will face LIV Golf stars Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka in a televised match later this year, according to reports.

The news of the contest between four of the biggest names in the sport comes as the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) – which funds LIV – continue to discuss a merger.

Negotiations between the PGA Tour and the PIF have been taking place for over a year in an attempt to end a split in the game.

Information about the all-star match were revealed on Wednesday by Golfweek, which said Northern Ireland’s McIlroy had confirmed the details.

I’m thrilled to partner with Scottie in what promises to be an exciting duel against Bryson and Brooks in Vegas this December,” McIlroy told Golfweek.

“This isn’t just a contest between some of golf’s major champions, it’s an event designed to energise the fans.

“We’re all here to put on a great show and contribute to a goodwill event that brings the best together again.”

Reigning Masters champion Scheffler and McIlroy are ranked as the first and third best men’s players in the world, while American pair DeChambeau and Koepka have won seven major titles between them.

This would be a rare and exciting opportunity for golf fans to see the big-name PGA and LIV stars go head-to-head in a targeted television event.

Meetings between all of the world’s best – outside of the majors – have been rare since LIV, which has been financed to the tune of $2bn (£1.6bn) by the PIF, was formed in 2022.

PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan has banned LIV players, many of whom are former members of the US-based tour, from competing in his circuit’s events.

When asked about the participation of McIlroy and Scheffler, the PGA Tour said it was “not affiliated with that event”.

BBC Sport has contacted LIV and player representatives for comment.