Judge rules LIV golfers suing PGA cannot participate in FedEx Cup Playoffs

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A federal judge in California ruled that three LIV golfers cannot participate in the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup Playoffs that begin this week.

Talor Gooch, Matt Jones and Hudson Swafford filed a temporary restraining order against the PGA Tour last week, arguing that they qualified for the playoffs before defecting to LIV Golf and should be able to participate. PGA responded with a motion to block it, thus Tuesday's court hearing.

Greg Norman CEO/Commissioner of LIV Golf and Talor Gooch at the first tee during the 3rd round of the LIV Golf Invitational Series Bedminster on July 31, 2022 at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey. (Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The golfers also argued that since LIV is currently on a hiatus from events (they won't pick back up until Labor Day Weekend), they were free agents and independent contractors.

However, PGA has maintained that anyone who joins LIV Golf will be barred from participating in Tour-sponsored events, as well as the upcoming Presidents Cup.

"These players have made their choice for their own financial-based reasons," a memo from Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan said. "But they can’t demand the same PGA Tour membership benefits, considerations, opportunities and platform as you. That expectation disrespects you, our fans and our partners."

Robert Walters, an antitrust litigators representing the LIV golfers, argued that the upcoming playoffs are "the Super Bowl of golf" and give them an opportunity at "significant income opportunities." The winner of the playoffs will receive $18 million.

Matt Jones of Australia hits from the 18th tee during the first round of the Honda