LIV and Let Die
“LIV and Let Die: The Inside Story of the War Between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf” by Alan Shipnuck offers an in-depth examination of the recent upheaval in professional golf, focusing on the emergence of the Saudi-funded LIV Golf League and its challenge to the established PGA Tour. Shipnuck provides a comprehensive narrative of how LIV Golf, under the leadership of Greg Norman and backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, sought to disrupt the traditional golf landscape by attracting top players with lucrative contracts. This move sparked a contentious battle within the sport, raising questions about ethics, competition, and the future direction of professional golf.
The book delves into the motivations behind LIV Golf's inception, highlighting Greg Norman's longstanding ambition to revolutionize the golf world and the Saudi government's interest in using sports to enhance its global image, a strategy often referred to as "sportswashing." Shipnuck explores how these ambitions converged, leading to the creation of a rival league that posed a significant threat to the PGA Tour's dominance. He also examines the ethical dilemmas faced by players and stakeholders, as they navigated the complex interplay of financial incentives and moral considerations.
Throughout the narrative, Shipnuck provides detailed accounts of the legal battles, strategic maneuvers, and personal conflicts that ensued as the PGA Tour sought to maintain its supremacy. He offers insights into the experiences of prominent figures such as Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods, and Phil Mickelson, shedding light on their roles and perspectives during this turbulent period. The book captures the intensity of the rivalry and the profound impact it had on the professional golf community.
“LIV and Let Die” serves as both a historical account and a critical analysis of a pivotal moment in golf history. Shipnuck's investigative reporting uncovers the complexities of the conflict between tradition and innovation, money and morality, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the forces reshaping the sport. The book stands as a testament to the evolving dynamics of professional golf and the broader implications of such transformations in the world of sports.