LIV Golf Revokes Michigan Reporter Credential Over Saudi Funding Questions

LIV Golf revoked the media credentials of Michigan-based journalist and podcast host Bill Hobson ahead of its team championship event after he refused to remove a podcast interview with former LIV player Pat Perez that included questions about the tour's controversial Saudi Arabian funding and the departure of former CEO Greg Norman. Hobson was initially credentialed but LIV officials later objected to the two questions, despite Perez answering them candidly during the 20-plus-minute conversation. LIV Golf offered Hobson standard grounds passes as an alternative, limiting his media access, but Hobson declined. Hobson criticized LIV for its intolerance and lack of freedom regarding critical questions, highlighting the broader issue of Saudi Arabia's influence over the league and its sensitivity toward media scrutiny. The incident underscores the ongoing tension around LIV Golf's Saudi backing and media control, with Hobson emphasizing his track record of fairness and lack of intent to provoke controversy. This episode reveals LIV Golf's continued efforts to control narratives about its funding and leadership amid persistent criticism.