An interview with LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil, originally posted by TNT Sports, was deleted and re-uploaded on social media after a key comment about the breakaway golf league's future was removed. The original version, captured by viewers, reportedly featured O'Neil stating LIV Golf was "just getting started" and had a "10-year plan." The edited repost omitted this forward-looking statement.
The incident occurred amid ongoing scrutiny of LIV Golf's business model and player retention. The league, which is backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, has faced questions about its long-term viability and its impact on the traditional golf ecosystem following a framework agreement with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour.
Separately, golfer Bryson DeChambeau, a captain for the Crushers GC LIV team, made headlines for an outburst during a tournament. After a poor shot, DeChambeau was seen visibly frustrated and spitting on a green, an act criticized as unprofessional by some observers. The two events, while unrelated, contributed to a news cycle focused on the league's public image.
TNT Sports has not publicly commented on the reason for editing the O'Neil interview. LIV Golf has also not issued a statement regarding the altered clip or DeChambeau's conduct. The editing of the interview has fueled further discussion about the league's strategic communications and future trajectory.
