Former PGA Tour Commissioner Says LIV Golfers Were 'Sold a Bill of Goods,' But Remains Hopeful for Resolution

PGA Tour commissioners past and present (from left, Jay Monahan, Tim Finchem and Deane Beman, with Scottie Scheffler) have historically protected the Tour by holding players' media rights and requiring permission to play on other tours. | Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

There are numerous reasons for the current divide in the men’s professional game, many of which have been dissected to various degrees over the past couple of years as the tussle continues to drag on.

At its simplest and perhaps most basic, it boils down to the ability for a golfer to play where he wants and when he wants, without onerous restrictions.