R&A CEO Open to Saudi Investment, Worries about Golf's Financial Sustainability
R&A CEO Martin Slumbers has not ruled out the possibility of accepting investment from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund to help fund the escalating costs of The Open Championship. While the R&A is not interested in having a presenting sponsor, Slumbers acknowledged the changing landscape of sports sponsorship and mentioned ongoing discussions with potential sponsors. The PGA Tour recently announced an alliance with the DP World Tour and the Public Investment Fund, which has invested over $2 billion in the LIV Golf League. Slumbers emphasized the need for financial sustainability in professional golf and the importance of promoting women's and girls' golf. The R&A also announced plans to host the first African Amateur Championship in South Africa.