Amazon and Apple Both Say "No"... LIV Golf Rejected for Broadcast Rights Proposal

WSJ "Neither Company Shows Interest"
Criticism Over Saudi Image Rehabilitation Amid Human Rights Abuses

Logo of the LIV Golf Invitational Series. Photo by EPA Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Hee-jun] Both Amazon and Apple have rejected offers to transfer broadcasting rights for the LIV Golf Invitational Series. LIV Golf is recruiting world-class golf players backed by the massive capital of Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund (PIF).

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on the 15th (local time) that LIV Golf approached Amazon and Apple with broadcasting proposals, but both were rejected. LIV Golf reportedly sought to broadcast through platforms such as TV and iPhone owned by these companies.

LIV Golf tournaments are currently broadcast live only through limited channels, including YouTube. Because of this, LIV Golf previously attempted deals with broadcasters such as ESPN, CBS, NBC, and Fox but failed to finalize any agreements.

LIV Golf is supported by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund. This backing enabled the recruitment of world-class players such as Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson (both from the U.S.) and Cameron Smith (Australia). Smith reportedly joined last month on the 30th after receiving $100 million (139 billion KRW).

In response, the PGA Tour is imposing sanctions preventing players who moved to LIV Golf from participating in any tournaments organized by the PGA. The sanctioned players have escalated conflicts by filing antitrust lawsuits against the PGA.

Some argue that LIV Golf is being 'snubbed' by companies due to 'sportswashing.' WSJ also noted, "There are criticisms that the golf tournament was arranged by Saudi Arabia, which has faced human rights abuses such as the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, as a means to restore its image."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.