If there are not any gamers, there isn’t a LIV 2.0.
So the subsequent few weeks will likely be vital in offering the precise particulars gamers say they’re at the moment missing to make selections over their future.
When requested if there was a vital mass of gamers wanted to enroll in the long run earlier than a transaction might be completed, O’Neil mentioned: “The whole thing of our focus is to get to this transaction and get by means of it.
“With out the gamers, that turns into very tough. I’ve degree of confidence in my dialog that we’ll have a vital mass of the best gamers to maneuver this league ahead.”
Northern Eire’s Graeme McDowell, who joined LIV in 2022, advised BBC Sport the temper among the many gamers was “subdued”.
“There are 57 gamers out right here on LIV and there are 57 completely different mindsets,” mentioned the 2010 US Open champion.
“Some guys have some exemptions in different excursions, some have nowhere to go [if LIV folds].”
He mentioned he could be “taking a step again” to work out his future after the Indianapolis occasion.
“If LIV 2.0 goes forward, we’ll have a look at the schedule and the way it all performs out, and see if that fits me and my life-style,” McDowell added.
“I’ve a possibility to return to the European Tour and play there as properly.
“Whether or not the 2 of these can occur concurrently, whether or not I can solely do one or the opposite, there are questions like that we do not know the solutions to. Till I get that, it is very tough to make any selections.”
When requested by BBC Sport about his future, Smith, who joined LIV simply after profitable The Open in 2022, mentioned there could be a “little little bit of time to consider that after the season is completed”.
Would he like to stay with LIV? “I actually love LIV,” he mentioned. “It has completed wonders for my household, for golf in Australia, my associates, the folks that we have got to fulfill all over the world. It will be a disgrace for it to be completed, however we’ll see what occurs.”
Different gamers didn’t really feel comfy talking on the document.
One senior participant mentioned there’s an “emotional” feeling among the many group as they await readability.
One other advised BBC Sport “it has been nice”, earlier than shortly including “it’s nice”.
It was made clear Jon Rahm – whose future is the source of considerable speculation – wouldn’t converse to media except for his match obligations.
American Bryson DeChambeau declined an interview request from BBC Sport.
However after Thursday’s first spherical, he mentioned: “We undoubtedly have loads towards us.
“If it really works, it really works, superior. If it does not, we’ll determine issues out. Time will transfer on, and I’d say that point heals issues.
“I hope folks can see that we truly deliver worth to the sport of golf. My want is that individuals give us another shot and be open minded.”
