Another Bug Hunt? Saudi Arabia's PIF Swings into Women's Golf!

They're Coming Out of the Walls... With Golf Clubs!

Alright people Ripley here. You wouldn't believe what I'm seeing now. Seems Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF)—the same folks trying to cozy up to the PGA Tour—are throwing serious cash at women's golf. Five events on the Ladies European Tour are getting a complete makeover turning into something called the 'PIF Global Series'. Locations range from Riyadh to Seoul London to Houston and Shenzhen. Remember when Ash said "I can't lie to you about your chances but... but you have my sympathies." Well I can't lie this is a LOT of money.

$13 Million Reasons to Play... Or Run!

They're dangling a collective purse of $13 million across these five events. Not bad right? Alexandra Armas CEO of the Ladies European Tour is singing their praises talking about increased competition and opportunities. Sure sounds great on paper. But remember what Bishop said about synthetic food? "Not bad for government work." This whole thing feels a bit... synthetic.

From Oil Wells to Fairways: A Diversification Strategy

Turns out Saudi Arabia is trying to shake off its oil slicked image and diversify its economy. Good for them. Fine. Investing in women's sports is part of their grand plan apparently. They’ve already thrown a lifeline to the WTA Tour promising to grow the game and improve benefits maternity fund fully paid and all. Okay I'll admit that maternity fund is actually kinda progressive. But still I'm watching them... always watching.

Rights vs. Greens: A Moral Hazard?

Here's where my acid blood starts to boil. Saudi Arabia has been let's just say 'slow' in giving women rights. So splashing cash on international women’s sports feels a tad... hypocritical doesn't it? It's like Weyland Yutani suddenly deciding they care about endangered species. "What do you say Ash?" "Ninety nine point nine percent certain it's a waste of time." But maybe just maybe this could be a good thing. A step forward however small.

Meanwhile Back on the Men's Side...

PIF's foray into men's golf has been a bigger mess than the Nostromo after a Xenomorph rampage. Remember that so called merger between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour? Still hasn't happened despite Donald Trump's best efforts to play peacemaker. Sounds like someone's in for a bad time. "I say we take off nuke the site from orbit. It's the only way to be sure."

Korea Kicks Off: Keep Your Eyes Open

The Aramco Korea Championship kicks off this Friday in Seoul. I'll be keeping an eye on this whole situation. Something tells me this story is far from over. Just remember what Lambert said: "We're not going to get rich." But maybe just maybe these women golfers will. Just stay frosty folks. Ripley out.