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DeChambeau plans shift to digital content amid LIV uncertainty
Two-time U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau has revealed he will prioritize expanding his YouTube presence if LIV Golf fails to secure new funding after Saudi Arabia withdraws its backing later this year.
Saudi pullout shakes LIV Golf's future
The breakaway golf series faces an uncertain future after Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced it would end its financial support by December. The move has left players and organizers scrambling for alternative investors.
DeChambeau, 32, said he was "completely shocked" by the decision, having expected PIF to fund LIV until 2032. He confirmed he had received no official communication about the withdrawal.
DeChambeau's contract and demands
The American golfer's current LIV deal expires at the end of the 2026 season. Reports suggest he sought a $500 million extension to remain with the tour, though he has not publicly confirmed the figure.
Earlier this year, DeChambeau declined an offer to return to the PGA Tour under a reinstatement program for former LIV players. He joined the Saudi-backed series in 2022, citing a desire to help grow the sport.
Focus shifts to YouTube and selective tournaments
Speaking ahead of this week's LIV event at Trump National Golf Club, DeChambeau outlined his backup plan if the tour dissolves. "I'd love to grow my YouTube channel three times over-maybe even more," he told ESPN. "I want to dub content in different languages to reach a global audience."
He added that he would only compete in tournaments that "want me," signaling a potential shift toward a more independent schedule.
Call for unity in golf
DeChambeau criticized the ongoing divisions between LIV and the PGA Tour, urging both sides to set aside egos. "Everybody needs to come in with a level-headed, opportunistic mindset to grow the game," he said. "That's why I came over here. That's why I do what I do on YouTube."
LIV's search for new investors
LIV Golf, which sparked controversy in 2022 by luring top players from the PGA Tour with massive contracts, is now under pressure to find replacement funding. The tour is reportedly forming an independent board to oversee the transition.
