Tony Finau became the latest big-name PGA Tour star to be linked to a controversial big-money move to LIV Golf after it was announced that Jon Rahm had signed a deal to join the Saudi-backed league
Tony Finau has committed to another season on the PGA Tour after being heavily linked with a move to LIV Golf.
Composing on his Instagram, Finau squashed speculation that he might follow Jon Rahm’s path to the Saudi-backed circuit after refusing to play down the reports this past weekend. Finau revealed he’ll be defending his titles at the Houston Open and Mexico Open in the coming season, and will also participate in the Sentry Tournament of Champions in Hawaii from Jan. 4-7.
Rahm recently caused a stir in the golf world by leaving the PGA for LIV. The reigning Masters champion and World No. 3 reportedly signed a multi-year deal worth £450 million.
Finau is close friends with Rahm, with multiple reports suggesting he could be ready to receive a huge deal of his own to move away from the PGA Tour to LIV. But he has now pledged his loyalty to the PGA Tour.
He wrote on Instagram: “The 2023 season is in the books! It was a special and incredible season highlighted with a win at the Mexico Open, it was my 6th Win on the PGA Tour. Another highlight was reaching the tour championship for the 7th year in a row!
“As this year comes to an end I’m grateful to play the game that I love and to have the opportunity to compete at the highest level. I’m excited for 2024 and looking forward to playing my 10th season on the PGA Tour! And stoked to be defending in both Mexico and Houston!
Finau will not join LIV Golf
“Thank you to my partners for your continued support. Thank you to the fans for all the love for our whole Finau fam. See y’all in Maui! #imnotleaving.”
Just this past weekend, many had believed that he would make the move as reports had suggested when he refused to pour cold water on the idea of him signing with LIV.
He told Sports Illustrated, “No, not yet,” in response to a question about his name being connected to a LIV move and whether he had anything to say. I’m just playing right now; I haven’t let anything marinade.
Finau has had a great start to the PGA Tour’s LPGA Tour crossover event in Florida, and there have been rumors that Greg Norman and company may be planning to give him a big contract.