The PGA Tour’s unofficial fifth major is here, with the 50th Players Championship kicking off Thursday.
Prior to the match, PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan held a lengthy press conference in front of the media.
Unsurprisingly, most of the questions concerned negotiations with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the reintegration of the game. However, he was reluctant to provide details on the subject.
Monaghan, however, answered questions about Anthony Kim’s return to golf. Monaghan took an interesting approach when asked if he had any conversations with Kim about returning to the PGA Tour.
“We did not have a direct conversation with Anthony, nor did members of our team, and we explained very clearly what he needed to do to return to the PGA Tour. We hope Anthony is healthy and well. We’re happy for him and we wish him good health,” Monaghan said curtly.
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He was then asked if he wanted to see Kim return and how sponsors could line up for him.
“I would have liked to have seen him fight to get back on the tour, but he is not a member of the PGA Tour, so I have nothing more to add.”
Earlier this year, rumors surfaced that Kim was planning a return to professional golf after more than a decade away from the game.
The last time he competed, he was a rising star and a fan favorite.
In the end, Kim decided to join LIV Golf. Despite having a tough time since his return, Kim had a great round at LIV Golf Hong Kong on Sunday.
Kim was the latest golf talent to leave the PGA Tour for a rival league funded by Saudi Arabia. Reigning Masters champion Jon Rahm shockingly retired in December, followed soon after by Tyrrell Hatton.
Monaghan declined to say whether he was concerned about other top names being poached as negotiations with PIF continue. Instead, he remained focused on thinking positively that a deal would eventually be made.
As more big names leave the tour, Monaghan’s influence wanes. The pressure is on.
Kendall Capps is the senior editor of SB Nation’s Playing Through.For more golf coverage, follow us @_PlayingThrough On all major social media platforms.
