The potential merger between the PGA Tour and the Saudi-backed LIV Golf has sparked outrage and investigations, particularly regarding Saudi Arabia's human rights record and alleged ties to the 9/11 attacks. Senator Richard Blumenthal launched a probe into the deal, raising concerns about Saudi Arabia's influence on American institutions and its attempts to improve its global image through sports. The merger has also reignited concerns about the Saudis' involvement in the 9/11 attacks, especially as golfers flocked to LIV Golf for lucrative contracts.

The optics of the deal are problematic, with 9/11 families protesting the potential realignment. Terry Strada, who lost her husband in the North Tower, questioned the partnership with Saudi Arabia and expressed concerns about the impact on the sport. The families also criticized PGA Tour board member Jimmy Dunne, who helped broker the deal, despite surviving 9/11 and losing colleagues in the attacks.

Dunne defended the deal, stating that LIV Golf posed an existential threat to the PGA Tour due to its financial resources. He argued that the merger was necessary to prevent LIV Golf from poaching players and undermining the PGA Tour's viability. The secret negotiations leading up to the merger announcement have drawn criticism, particularly the lack of communication with PGA Tour players before the deal was made public.

While some senators expressed concerns about the merger, others questioned the legitimacy of the hearing and the focus on the PGA Tour's role in holding Saudi Arabia accountable. Senator Ron Johnson argued that it was unfair to expect the PGA Tour to bear the full burden of accountability, while Senator Rand Paul questioned the appropriateness of scrutinizing a private organization. The investigation is ongoing, with some lawmakers suggesting the possibility of revoking the PGA Tour's tax-exempt status and further hearings planned.