In a groundbreaking move, the PGA Tour and LIV Golf have recently announced their merger, creating a new competition. However, the decision has sparked outrage among the families of 9/11 victims, who express shock and deep offense at the PGA Tour’s partnership with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf. This article delves into the controversy surrounding the merger, shedding light on the concerns raised by the families and examining the potential success of the PGA Tour and LIV Golf collaboration.
Contents
The Merger Announcement and Family Reactions
The PGA Tour and LIV Golf made headlines on June 6 with their announcement of a merger, bringing together two influential entities in the world of golf. While some hailed this development as a positive step for the sport, not everyone shared the same enthusiasm. The families of 9/11 victims, in particular, were deeply disappointed and took the opportunity to voice their grievances.
9/11 Families United: A Statement of Concern
Representing the families of 9/11 victims, the group known as 9/11 Families United released a statement expressing their concerns over the merger. They highlighted the financial backing of the LIV Golf league, stating that it relies on “billions of sports washing money from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.” This association with Saudi Arabia is particularly troubling for the families, as Saudi operatives were believed to have played a role in the 9/11 attacks.
Terry Strada, Chair of 9/11 Families United, accused PGA Commissioner Jay Monahan of being a “paid Saudi shill” and denounced the merger as an attempt to cleanse Saudi Arabia’s reputation. The families firmly believe that the Saudi Kingdom funded terrorism with billions of dollars before the tragic events of 9/11, perpetuating vitriolic hatred and financing groups like al Qaeda. Strada emphasized that the families will never forget the actions of the Saudi Kingdom and criticized the PGA and Monahan for aligning themselves with Saudi interests.
The Outrage and Professional Golfers’ Responses
The anger expressed by the families of 9/11 victims resonated with several professional golfers who voiced their own discontent. Wesley Bryan condemned the PGA Tour, stating that they should be ashamed of their actions. The focus of their criticism remained on Commissioner Monahan, who had previously challenged LIV Golfers, questioning whether they had ever apologized for being associated with the PGA Tour. Now, the tables have turned, and Monahan himself, along with the PGA Tour, is faced with the need to make amends.
Hypocrisy and Greed: Betraying the 9/11 Community?
The families of 9/11 victims believe that the PGA Tour’s alignment with LIV Golf and Saudi backing showcases a significant level of hypocrisy and greed. They feel betrayed by Commissioner Monahan and the PGA Tour, viewing their purported concern for the loved ones lost in the 9/11 attacks as nothing more than a facade to further their financial interests. The families assert that the PGA Tour’s actions prioritize monetary gains over honoring the integrity of the game of golf.
Conclusion
The merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf has stirred controversy, particularly among the families of 9/11 victims. Their outrage stems from the Saudi-backed nature of LIV Golf and the belief that the Saudi Kingdom played a role in the 9/11 attacks. Despite the criticism and accusations of hypocrisy, the PGA Tour and LIV Golf will proceed with their collaboration. The repercussions and ultimate success of this merger remain uncertain, but the concerns raised by the families of 9/11 victims serve as a reminder of the importance of considering ethical implications when forging partnerships in the sporting world.