Tony Finau’s legal battle resurfaces, protesters demand he pay alleged debt

At Tony Finau’s annual charity golf tournament, a group of protesters gathered outside Utah’s Oakridge Country Club to demand repayment of an alleged debt. The protestors, holding signs with messages such as “Tony Pay Your Debts” and “Keep Your Word,” accused the golfer of owing them substantial amounts of money, including millions claimed by former associates.

As Tony Finau hosted his annual golf tournament and clinic, the usually serene atmosphere at Utah’s Oakridge Country Club was disrupted by the presence of around a dozen peaceful protestors. These individuals stood outside the club’s gates for over two hours, alleging that Finau has failed to repay them for financial support they provided to help him become a professional golf superstar. Among the protestors was Molokai Hola, who claims Finau owes him $600,000 and 20% of his career earnings. 

Finau, who arrived at the club with his family, did not engage with the protestors. As the vehicle transporting him slowed briefly for clearance, Finau looked on through the window but did not acknowledge the group, which included signs directed at the Tony Finau Foundation and the Utah Sports Commission, a sponsor of the event.

Tony Finau: A History of Controversy

This public protest is the latest in a series of allegations against Tony Finau, who has faced multiple lawsuits related to alleged unpaid debts. Hola, a former family friend and business associate, filed a lawsuit in 2020, seeking repayment of the $600,000 he claims to have invested in Finau’s and his brother Gipper’s golf careers between 2006 and 2009. Hola is also demanding 20% of Finau’s career earnings, a claim that could amount to millions of dollars, given Finau’s reported career earnings of over $55 million. 

Another lawsuit, filed in 2021 by Utah County real estate developer David Hunter, was dismissed due to statute of limitations issues. Hunter had sought repayment of a $495,000 loan and a share of Tony Finau’s earnings. These legal battles highlight the ongoing financial disputes that have plagued Finau’s career despite his professional success.

The protest at Oakridge Country Club underscores a broader controversy surrounding Tony Finau’s financial dealings. Protest organizer Rocky Bowlby, a former co-owner of Dental Select, claimed that Finau and his family owe him over $100,000 for loans, rent, and other expenses. Bowlby emphasized that the protest aimed to raise awareness about Finau’s alleged debts and to challenge the public’s perception of the golfer.

“Nobody knows the real Tony,” said Bowlby, highlighting the protestors’ intent to bring these issues to light. The demonstrators’ grievances include claims from more than ten individuals who allege they have not been repaid for their financial contributions to Finau’s career.

The legal disputes continue to unfold, with a jury trial for Hola’s lawsuit scheduled for September 2024. The outcome of this trial could have significant financial implications for Tony Finau, potentially requiring him to pay a substantial portion of his career earnings if the court rules in Hola’s favor. Meanwhile, Finau’s management team has remained tight-lipped, directing all inquiries to his representatives at the Wasserman Sports and Talent Agency, who have consistently declined to comment on the allegations.

As Tony Finau navigates these legal challenges, the protest at his charity event has cast a spotlight on the financial controversies that continue to shadow his career. The accusations and ongoing lawsuits present a complex narrative for the golfer, whose professional achievements are now intertwined with questions about his financial integrity.