Now this is a huge initiative from the top Golf association bodies DP WORLD TOUR and PGA TOUR that boosts the true essence of Golf and promises to add more muscle to the Golfing landscape. The PGA Tour and DP World Tour announced on Tuesday that they have upgraded their previous ‘strategic alliance’ to an ‘operational joint venture partnership’ as part of a 13-year deal.

 

 

 

 

As part of the strengthening of their partnership, the PGA Tour and DP World Tour have agreed to the following terms:

 

• PGA Tour increasing its stake in European Tour Productions from 15% to 40%
• DP World Tour guaranteeing larger prize funds for the next five years
• Top 10 players in DP World Tour Rankings automatically earning PGA Tour cards

 

 

“It was clear from the outset that our Strategic Partnership with the European Tour Group was a powerful agreement for both sides, and we are thrilled with today’s announcement of this expanded partnership,” said PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan.

 

 

                                         

                                        Collin Marikowa won the DP World tour Championship in 2021

 

 

What that actually means is the PGA Tour is increasing its investment in the circuit formally known as the European Tour, including prize fund levels, which are set to grow annually for the next five years.

 

The joint venture also provides a formal pathway from the DP World Tour to the PGA Tour for the first time. As such, beginning in 2023, the leading ten players on the end of season DP World Tour Rankings [in addition to those already exempt] will earn PGA Tour cards.

 

 

                   

                           Patrick Cantlay won the PGA Tour Championship in 2021 at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta
 

 

 

It also provides a clearly defined pathway for top players around the world. Players from the Sunshine Tour and ISPS Handa PGA Tour of Australasia, with whom the DP World Tour already has existing strategic alliances, will enjoy a formal pathway to the DP World Tour.

 

“This move will significantly enhance the meritocracy that has successfully served the professional game on both sides of the Atlantic for more than 50 years,” DP World Tour CEO Keith Pelley said. “It is a natural extension and progression of what we have been doing over the past few years and I passionately believe that this move is the right thing for our players, our Tour, our fans, and the game of golf in general.

 

“Our two tours have undoubtedly drawn closer over the past few years and today’s announcement strengthens both Tours for the betterment of both memberships.”