Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm speak before teeing off for a practice round ahead of the 2022 US Open.AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty
- This week's US Open marks the first major of the LIV Golf era.
- Players that have committed to both sides of the PGA Tour-LIV Golf rivalry are set to contend this week.
This week's US Open marks golf's first major of the LIV Golf era.
After decades of being the predominant body in pro golf, the PGA Tour is now facing a challenge from the Saudi-backed upstart league, which has already convinced several high-profile players to swap allegiances.
As the top talent in golf now seems destined to be split in two, the majors will take on even more importance, as they could be the only place where PGA Tour and LIV players compete head-to-head.
Further, this first major since the start of LIV golf gives players on both sides of the battle the chance to frame the next chapter of the rivalry between the two leagues with a statement win.
Should a PGA Tour-lifer take home the trophy, chances are they'll take another shot or two at LIV. Meanwhile, if a LIV player breaks through to win, it could do considerable damage to the PGA Tour's current claim that it still holds the best talent.
Here are 11 contenders to win at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts, and what each person's win could mean for the future of golf.