Three LIV Golf players requested permission to play in the FedEx Cup. However, Judge Beth Labson Freeman believes that they were aware of what their decision meant (to play at LIV Golf). Freeman believes that the players have calculated well what is better for them.
“Based on this evidence, Plaintiffs have not even shown that they have been harmed – let alone irreparably,” Freeman wrote. “It is clear that the LIV Golf contracts negotiated by the Plaintiffs and consummated between the parties were based on the players’ calculation of what they would be leaving behind and the amount of money they would need to compensate for those losses.”
Key motive: Money
The main motive behind their decision was money, even though LIV Golf is a big ‘enemy’ of the PGA Tour and other competitions. “Plaintiffs have signed contracts that richly reward them for their talent and compensate for lost opportunity through TOUR play.
In fact, the evidence shows almost without a doubt that they will be earning significantly more money with LIV Golf than they could reasonably have expected to make through TOUR play over the same time period.” The players complained that this behavior by the PGA Tour could have consequences for them, related to contracts and future in the sport.
“Plaintiffs’ contention that they will irreparably lose future sponsorship opportunities and career status is undermined by Plaintiffs’ evidence that LIV Golf offers a refreshing new ‘extremely fan-friendly’ business model that will lead to ‘an improved broadcast output and entertainment experience’ compared to the staid old golf world built by PGA TOUR “If LIV Golf is elite golf’s future, what do Plaintiffs care about the dust-collecting trophies of a bygone era?” Rory McIlroy is satisfied with the decision.
He believes it’s right. “From my vantage point common sense prevailed and I thought it was the right decision.”
