Part 5/9:
The PGA Tour grappled with criticism over its compensation framework even though it enjoyed popularity in the sporting realm. Enter LIV Golf, which promised lavish contracts and more manageable playing schedules, subsequently attracting top talent from the PGA's ranks. Similarly, the UFC leveraged Saudi financial backing to expand its audience and deter competitive threats like the Professional Fighters League.
The trend reveals a fundamental truth: sports can often function as a means of "sportswashing," an attempt by countries to bolster their image amid serious humanitarian concerns. This paints a stark picture for industries like college football, where governance and regulation struggles could easily invite outside influence.