Cho Minn Thant Pivots Asian Tour Away From LIV Golf

The golf world was caught off guard when the Asian Tour abruptly shifted its focus away from LIV Golf during a private meeting at Royal Birkdale. This decision came shortly after the Public Investment Fund withdrew its multi-billion dollar funding from LIV, shattering a five-year partnership agreement. Cho Minn Thant, the Asian Tour's CEO, indicated ongoing talks with LIV before the Masters, but the withdrawal left the International Series in disarray.

Just days prior to the announcement, officials were still discussing the growth of the partnership. The cancellation of tournaments in China and India due to the loss of funding was a harsh blow. Cho Minn Thant revealed that the Asian Tour was still in discussions to prolong the partnership with LIV until the Masters. The tour expected a 21-event schedule, but this was replaced by a scramble to find a new major partner.

The Asian Tour quickly began negotiations with the DP World Tour and PGA Tour after the Open Championship, agreeing to broad terms that saved the tour from collapse. The Philippine Open will proceed, albeit with reduced prize money, while the Saudi International remains a standalone tournament. This sudden shift highlights the fragility of the new golf landscape, where financial backing can quickly change priorities.