LIV Golf has appointed former TaylorMade chief executive Mark King as a senior adviser as the embattled league attempts to secure its future beyond 2026.
King’s appointment comes as LIV works to complete a recapitalisation transaction with BC Partners Credit following the withdrawal of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund’s financial support beyond this season.
King, who helped grow TaylorMade from $US300 million to more than $US1.85 billion in sales, will advise LIV’s leadership and is expected to recruit and chair an advisory board for the league’s next era.
“Mark is a proven leader with an extraordinary track record of transforming businesses, building iconic brands, and creating community,” LIV Golf chief executive officer Scott O’Neil said.
“His deep understanding and relationships in and around the professional golf industry, combined with his expertise in driving innovation and building high-performing organisations, makes him a valuable addition as an advisor to our team at this pivotal moment. Mark’s perspective and guidance will further enhance our leadership team as we build a sustainable, player-focused global tour.”
The appointment comes as LIV faces a crucial test of its ability to retain players and establish a sustainable business model. The league’s initial October 25 deadline for player commitments has passed, with departures and uncertainty surrounding several high-profile names adding pressure ahead of the 2027 season.
Trusted social media source Flushing It (@flushingitgolf) has reported the PIF have set a deadline of October 30, 2026 to determine whether they will allow BC Partners to continue the restructuring, or move towards formal liquidation.
Australia’s Lucas Herbert has emerged among the latest players reported to be leaving, although he hasn’t publicly confirmed his departure.
King believes the league still has significant potential.
“Having spent much of my career in golf, I believe there is a tremendous opportunity for LIV Golf to establish itself as a competitive and enduring force in the game,” he said. “Competition drives innovation, creates opportunities, and ultimately makes the entire ecosystem stronger.”
LIV says BC Partners Credit has secured an initial investment and that the transaction remains on track, although the deal has yet to be completed.
“Mark’s appointment is another important step forward as we continue to build momentum towards the next era of LIV Golf,” said Ted Goldthorpe, partner and head of BC Partners Credit.
For Australian golf, the stakes are significant. LIV Golf Adelaide is scheduled to return to Kooyonga from March 18-21, 2027, with the league’s Australian commitment extending through at least 2031.
On Tuesday, South Australia Premier Peter Malinauskas told SEN SA radio that he expects a final decision on LIV Golf Adelaide to be made by November 2.
“There’s a critical date on the 2nd of November, I think it is, for their financial restructuring, and then we’ll see,” Malinauskas said.
“They’ve (LIV Golf) been in town the last few days and they’re telling all of our officials that they’re planning to be here in March and that things are coming together.”
