The Showdown is a unique event that will see Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy take on two LIV Golf rivals later this year.

The PGA Tour was bitterly divided in 2021 when LIV Golf formally announced its arrival, backed by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund.

McIlroy and Scheffler are arguably the two biggest names in men’s golf at the momentGetty

The introduction of this new tour saw many established top stars head to LIV Golf.

But talks between the rival groups are ongoing with the idea of a potential merger, and an event like this could be seen as another positive step towards the two tours rejoining.

However, it should be noted that neither tour has any direct involvement in this event.

Scheffler and McIlroy represent the PGA Tour, while Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau are there for LIV Golf.

The Showdown 2024: Date and how to follow

This special one-off event is set to take place on Tuesday, December 17.

It will be held at the Shadow Creek Golf Club in Las Vegas.

The start time for the contest has yet to be confirmed, but it’s expected to get going in the early afternoon local time.

This means in the UK, it’s likely to be between 7-9pm.

talkSPORT will have updates from the US throughout, and talkSPORT.com will have all the reaction.

To tune in to talkSPORT through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

The action will also be shown on TNT Sports, with a channel to be confirmed closer to the time.

DeChambeau has enjoyed an excellent yearGetty

The Showdown 2024: Format

This match will see McIlroy and Scheffler join up and take on Koepka and DeChambeau.

It is set to be played over 18 holes and will be scored via match play rather than stroke play.

In match play, the duos will compete against each other on every hole, with the winner of that hole taking a point.

The pair with the most points at the end wins.

Scheffler’s season has been outstanding and includes him winning an Olympic gold and The MastersGetty

The Showdown 2024: Prize pot

There is no actual prize money on offer, with the four players competing for bragging rights and pride.

However, they are all set to be paid for appearing in this exhibition event.

Reports suggest all four men will pocket $4million.

This is a similar amount to a PGA Tour signature event and a LIV Golf tournament and actually more than any of the majors in 2024.

The Showdown 2024: What has been said?

Speaking after the event was announced, McIlroy said: “I’m thrilled to partner with Scottie in what promises to be an exciting duel against Bryson and Brooks in Vegas this December.

“This isn’t just a contest between some of golf’s major champions; it’s an event designed to energise the fans.

“We’re all here to put on a great show and contribute to a goodwill event that brings the best together again.

“We all want to see more of the best golfers in the world going head-to-head, battling it out on the back nine of a tournament.

“At a time where the professional game has felt divided, we believe this event can bring fans an incredible day of entertainment.”