Bryson feels bad for PGA TOUR players after merger with LIV Golf

Bryson DeChambeau, one of the most prominent golfers who defected to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf a year ago, said he believes those who remained loyal to the PGA TOUR got the short end of the stick in the new merger between the once rival leagues.

"I do feel bad for the PGA TOUR players because they were told one thing, and something else happened. And our side, we were told one thing, and it's come to fruition," DeChambeau told CNN's Kaitlan Collins on Tuesday evening.

"It does stink a little bit from my perspective that the PGA TOUR players are not necessarily winning. I hope they can find a way to make sure that they are valued in the same way that we are over at LIV. I think that'll happen. It's just going to take some time."

DeChambeau and other marquee players received substantial signing bonuses when they defected to LIV. Leaving the PGA TOUR meant it would hurt those players' legacy, but now they get the best of both worlds.

The controversy over where LIV's money comes from is partly why loyal PGA TOUR backers like Rory McIlroy, for example, stayed put. LIV Golf is supported by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, run by the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud.

"It's unfortunate what has happened, and that's something I cannot necessarily speak on because I'm a golfer," DeChambeau said when asked if he's uncomfortable knowing LIV is funded by a nation accused of human rights violations and financing terrorism.

"But what I can say is what they're trying to do, what they're trying to work on is to be better allies because we are allies with them.

"Look, I'm not going to get into politics about it. I'm not specialized in that. What I can say is they're trying to do good for the world and showcase themselves in a light that hasn't been seen in a while. And nobody's perfect, but we're all trying to improve in life."