The third season of Liv Golf is underway and the battle of the sport is heating up once again. India's no. 1 golfer Anirban Lahiri was part of the Crushers GC team that won the title in the second season. Lahiri previewed the new season in a conversation with Wion Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo.

Anirban Lahiri sets up the 2024 LIV Golf season

The civil war in Golf is taking another pause with LIV Golf's best teeing up alongside the best of the PGA Tour at the PGA Championship in Rochester in the state of New York. Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, and Cameron Smith will lead the challenge of the LIV brigade with Jon Rahm, Scottie Scheffler, and Rory Mcilroy aiming to deny their rivals once again. Anirban Lahiri is the only Indian golfer in the fray at Oak Hill Country Club and had finished inside the Top-Five at the 2015 edition of the tournament. Lahiri spoke to Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo ahead of the second major of the year.

“Well the thing is, we prefer not to talk too much about politics because, at the end of the day, that's what this is. The world of golf has become entrenched in politics unfortunately with different organisations vying for power and essentially. Retaining power or dictating terms essentially. It’s a sad situation that we find ourselves in,” said Lahiri while he exclusively spoke to WION.

There has been a conflict surrounding the LIV Golf and PGA where 16 golfers have pulled out of the PGA Championships. Paul Casey was the latest to join the casualty list with Sam Stevens taking his place instead at the 2023 PGA Championship in Oak Hill, Pittsford.

Speaking on the issue Lahiri opened up on the latest situation surrounding the European tour where the situation is more dilute.&nbsp;

“Organisations are themselves now potentially compromising professional golfers and professional golf. So, what is happening is very sad. I am really glad that I am not an active European tour member right now, I haven't been for a while because it would have put me also in a very sticky situation. But for someone like Lee, or Poulter or Henrick, these guys have been legends. They are Ryder Cup legends, and they have supported a lot of their home events. All that is suddenly forgotten. It is very very sad. It is very political and it is very unfortunate,” added Lahiri.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-feel-they-have-the-power-to-comment-or-say-what-they-want-kl-rahul-hits-back-at-online-trolls-593314">People feel they have the power to comment or say what they want: KL Rahul hits back at online trolls</a>

Speaking on his current run he reflected on how he usually begins&nbsp;his season and why he found it hard to get started at the start of the season.

“I think I started off this season almost trying a little bit too hard. I was getting in my own way; I think that’s been something I’m guilty of over the many years that I have played professional golf. I think we all get really amped up and really excited when we start a season. I didn’t play that early in the year and I had to reset,” Lahiri added.

The current war of politics between PGA and LIV leaves only 16 golfers from the Saudi-backed league that will be present at Oak Hill this week. As things stand the following golfers from the LIV golf will take guards in the event starting from Thursday.

Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Cameron Smith, Joaquin Niemann, Patrick Reed, Bryson DeChambeau, Talor Gooch, Abraham Ancer, Mito Pereira, Phil Mickelson, Dean Burmester, Thomas Pieters, Harold Varner III, Anirban Lahiri, Brendan Seele, Sihwan Kim.

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The civil war in Golf is taking another pause with LIV Golf's best teeing up alongside the best of the PGA Tour at the PGA Championship in Rochester in the state of New York.

The civil war in Golf is taking another pause with LIV Golf's best teeing up alongside the best of the PGA Tour at the PGA Championship in Rochester in the state of New York. Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, and Cameron Smith will lead the challenge of the LIV brigade with Jon Rahm, Scottie Scheffler, and Rory Mcilroy aiming to deny their rivals once again. Anirban Lahiri is the only Indian golfer in the fray at Oak Hill Country Club and had finished inside the Top-Five at the 2015 edition of the tournament. Lahiri spoke to Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo ahead of the second major of the year. “Well the thing is, we prefer not to talk too much about politics because, at the end of the day, that's what this is. The world of golf has become entrenched in politics unfortunately with different organisations vying for power and essentially. Retaining power or dictating terms essentially. It’s a sad situation that we find ourselves in,” said Lahiri while he exclusively spoke to WION. There has been a conflict surrounding the LIV Golf and PGA where 16 golfers have pulled out of the PGA Championships. Paul Casey was the latest to join the casualty list with Sam Stevens taking his place instead at the 2023 PGA Championship in Oak Hill, Pittsford. Speaking on the issue Lahiri opened up on the latest situation surrounding the European tour where the situation is more dilute. “Organisations are themselves now potentially compromising professional golfers and professional golf. So, what is happening is very sad. I am really glad that I am not an active European tour member right now, I haven't been for a while because it would have put me also in a very sticky situation. But for someone like Lee, or Poulter or Henrick, these guys have been legends. They are Ryder Cup legends, and they have supported a lot of their home events. All that is suddenly forgotten. It is very very sad. It is very political and it is very unfortunate,” added Lahiri. ALSO READ | People feel they have the power to comment or say what they want: KL Rahul hits back at online trolls Speaking on his current run he reflected on how he usually begins his season and why he found it hard to get started at the start of the season. “I think I started off this season almost trying a little bit too hard. I was getting in my own way; I think that’s been something I’m guilty of over the many years that I have played professional golf. I think we all get really amped up and really excited when we start a season. I didn’t play that early in the year and I had to reset,” Lahiri added. The current war of politics between PGA and LIV leaves only 16 golfers from the Saudi-backed league that will be present at Oak Hill this week. As things stand the following golfers from the LIV golf will take guards in the event starting from Thursday. Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Cameron Smith, Joaquin Niemann, Patrick Reed, Bryson DeChambeau, Talor Gooch, Abraham Ancer, Mito Pereira, Phil Mickelson, Dean Burmester, Thomas Pieters, Harold Varner III, Anirban Lahiri, Brendan Seele, Sihwan Kim. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WION EXCLUSIVE | Anirban Lahiri looks ahead to the PGA Championship

The civil war in Golf is taking another pause with LIV Golf's best teeing up alongside the best of the PGA Tour at the PGA Championship in Rochester in the state of New York. Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, and Cameron Smith will lead the challenge of the LIV brigade with Jon Rahm, Scottie Scheffler, and Rory Mcilroy aiming to deny their rivals once again. Anirban Lahiri is the only Indian golfer in the fray at Oak Hill Country Club and had finished inside the Top-Five at the 2015 edition of the tournament. Lahiri spoke to Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo ahead of the second major of the year.

“Well the thing is, we prefer not to talk too much about politics because at the end of the day that's what this is. The world of golf has become entrenched in politics unfortunately with different organisations vying for power and essentially. Retaining power or dictating terms essentially. It’s a sad situation that we find ourselves in,” said Lahiri while he exclusively spoke to WION.

There has been a conflict surrounding the LIV Golf and PGA where 16 golfers have pulled out of the PGA Championships. Paul Casey was the latest to join the casualty list with Sam Stevens taking his place instead at the 2023 PGA Championship in Oak Hill, Pittsford.

Speaking on the issue Lahiri opened up on the latest sitiaution surrounding the European tour where the situation is more dilute. &nbsp;

“Organisations are themselves now potentially compromising professional golfers and professional golf. So, what is happening is very sad. I am really glad that i am not an active European tour member right now, I haven't been for a while because it would have put me also in a very sticky situation. But for someone like lee, or Poulter or Henrick, these guys have been legends. They are Ryder cup legends, they have supported a lot of their home events. All that is suddenly forgotten. It is very very sad. It is very political and it is very unfortunate,” added Lahiri.

Speaking on his current run he reflected on how he usually started his season and why he found it hard to get started at the start of the season.

“I think I started off this season almost trying a little bit too hard. I was getting in my own way; I think that’s been something I’m guilty of over the many years that I have played professional golf. i think we all get really amped up and really excited when we start a season. I didn’t play that early in the year and I had to reset,” Lahiri added.

The current war of politics between PGA and LIB leaves only 16 golfers from the Saudi-backed league that will be present at Oak Hill this week. As things stand the following golfers from the LIV golf will take guards in the event starting from Thursday.

Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Cameron Smith, Joaquin Niemann, Patrick Reed, Bryson DeChambeau, Talor Gooch, Abraham Ancer, Mito Pereira, Phil Mickelson, Dean Burmester, Thomas Pieters, Harold Varner III, Anirban Lahiri, Brendan Seele, Sihwan Kim.

The civil war in Golf is taking another pause with LIV Golf's best teeing up alongside the best of the PGA Tour at the PGA Championship in Rochester in the state of New York. Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, and Cameron Smith will lead the challenge of the LIV brigade with Jon Rahm, Scottie Scheffler, and Rory Mcilroy aiming to deny their rivals once again. Anirban Lahiri is the only Indian golfer in the fray at Oak Hill Country Club and had finished inside the Top-Five at the 2015 edition of the tournament. Lahiri spoke to Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo ahead of the second major of the year. “Well the thing is, we prefer not to talk too much about politics because at the end of the day that's what this is. The world of golf has become entrenched in politics unfortunately with different organisations vying for power and essentially. Retaining power or dictating terms essentially. It’s a sad situation that we find ourselves in,” said Lahiri while he exclusively spoke to WION. There has been a conflict surrounding the LIV Golf and PGA where 16 golfers have pulled out of the PGA Championships. Paul Casey was the latest to join the casualty list with Sam Stevens taking his place instead at the 2023 PGA Championship in Oak Hill, Pittsford. Speaking on the issue Lahiri opened up on the latest sitiaution surrounding the European tour where the situation is more dilute. “Organisations are themselves now potentially compromising professional golfers and professional golf. So, what is happening is very sad. I am really glad that i am not an active European tour member right now, I haven't been for a while because it would have put me also in a very sticky situation. But for someone like lee, or Poulter or Henrick, these guys have been legends. They are Ryder cup legends, they have supported a lot of their home events. All that is suddenly forgotten. It is very very sad. It is very political and it is very unfortunate,” added Lahiri. Speaking on his current run he reflected on how he usually started his season and why he found it hard to get started at the start of the season. “I think I started off this season almost trying a little bit too hard. I was getting in my own way; I think that’s been something I’m guilty of over the many years that I have played professional golf. i think we all get really amped up and really excited when we start a season. I didn’t play that early in the year and I had to reset,” Lahiri added. The current war of politics between PGA and LIB leaves only 16 golfers from the Saudi-backed league that will be present at Oak Hill this week. As things stand the following golfers from the LIV golf will take guards in the event starting from Thursday. Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Cameron Smith, Joaquin Niemann, Patrick Reed, Bryson DeChambeau, Talor Gooch, Abraham Ancer, Mito Pereira, Phil Mickelson, Dean Burmester, Thomas Pieters, Harold Varner III, Anirban Lahiri, Brendan Seele, Sihwan Kim.

EXCLUSIVE | 'I didn’t play that early in the year and had to reset' - Anirban Lahiri reflects on his run

The civil war in Golf is taking another pause with LIV Golf's best teeing up alongside the best of the PGA Tour at the PGA Championship in Rochester in the state of New York. Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, and Cameron Smith will lead the challenge of the LIV brigade with Jon Rahm, Scottie Scheffler, and Rory Mcilroy aiming to deny their rivals once again. Anirban Lahiri is the only Indian golfer in the fray at Oak Hill Country Club and had finished inside the Top-Five at the 2015 edition of the tournament. Lahiri spoke to Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo ahead of the second Major of the year.

WION Exclusive: Lahiri looks ahead to the PGA championship

India's top-ranked golfer Anirban Lahiri believed the hatred and animosity against the rebel LIV Golf Series has been misplaced. The lucrative LIV&nbsp;Golf Series is funded by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund and has left the golf world divided by poaching some of the best players from across the globe with huge contracts.

LIV Golf is currently locked in a legal battle with the PGA Tour, which believes its status quo has been threatened by the introduction of the rebel series. While PGA has already banned the players who have signed with LIV Golf, DP World Tour - the other leading golf property in the world has only slapped fines.

The PGA Tour had recently countersued LIV Golf accusing the Saudi-backed league of attracting players unfairly by offering them whopping contracts. While the legal battle continues, the numerous top stars who have joined LIV, have been enjoying life in the new circuit and hope for the animosity to take a backseat soon.

Lahiri, who is the first Indian to have signed up with LIV Golf, spoke with WION on the sidelines of the Liv Golf invitational in Bangkok and said the game should not suffer because of the hatred towards the league. Lahiri also urged all parties involved to keep the interests of the fans above theirs.

"It should not have started with so much vitriol and animosity. It was very misplaced. There are three angles to it the way I look at it, there is the business angle in terms of the organisation, there is the angle of the players which is us and where we find ourselves in all of this, and there are fans who love golf," said Lahiri.

"I think the first aspect which is the organisational sort of animosity has spilt over to the second aspect which is the players and that is affecting the fans. I would love for the pyramid to be reversed where you put fans ahead and say let's make golf something that people love to watch like it used to be. And not force just one kind of golf on them.

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-we-saw-the-vision-ian-poulter-explains-his-decision-to-join-liv-golf-stirs-world-ranking-debate-522772">EXCLUSIVE! We saw the vision: Ian Poulter explains his decision to join LIV Golf, stirs world ranking debate</a>

It's not about good and bad. I think that's where this whole conversation has completely fallen on itself and golf has gotten divided. If you love golf, and you want to watch good golf that's all that should matter. Not one golf is good and the other golf is bad, I do not agree or subscribe to that. I think the focus needs to come back to golf," he explained.

The Indian golfer revealed he has a lot of friends, who have understood his decision and have supported him in his choice while there are others who he has had a fallout with due to joining LIV Golf. Lahiri wants PGS Tour and LIV Golf to sort out their differences and learn to co-exist as he believes the game has suffered a lot already.

"Just to begin with, it should not have gotten to where we have gotten. I have a lot of friends on the other side so to speak, who understand and get what I am doing and are okay with it. I have some who have fallen out with me which is really sad to see and that's something that needs to go away," said Lahiri.

"At the end of the day, we all respect each other, everybody is making their own decisions on their own choices which is fine but at the end of the day, I don't think golf should suffer. I think golf has suffered enough in the last few months. Going forward, if the organisations can put their spat aside, I think it will be good for golf in the long run and it has to go that way, it has to co-exist," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-asia-is-sleeping-giant-for-game-reaching-non-traditional-destinations-liv-golf-ceo-greg-norman-523325">Exclusive | Asia is sleeping giant to help game reach non-traditional destinations: LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman</a>

Being a professional golfer is not an easy job as Lahir, like many others, has to spend days away from family while playing on tours. However, the Indian golfer considers himself lucky to be doing what he has grown up loving and credits his family for their sacrifices which allow him to focus on his job on the field.

"I don't look at it negatively, I think we are very privileged to be doing what we are doing. We are very honoured to have this life, to be able to play a sport that you&nbsp;love for a living is something that I will never take lightly. Yes every job has its demands, and if you look at the job of playing professional golf, there is a huge demand on the family, the cost is borne by the wife and the kids," Lahiri said.

"Because once we get to a tournament, we are so focused on what we are doing. We kind of go into an alternate space where it's routine, I need to go to the gym, wake up do this, stretch, play, work out, and practice, we are almost so regimented that everything else ceases to exist for us so we are physically, emotionally absent from the rest of your family.

When you are single, you are young, and it's easy to do that but I do feel like I am getting pulled in other directions which is why moving to LIV Golf, playing a little less and spending time with the family was also something that attracted me towards it," he added.

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India's top-ranked golfer Anirban Lahiri believed the hatred and animosity against the rebel LIV Golf Series has been misplaced. The lucrative LIV Golf Series is funded by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund and has left the golf world divided by poaching some of the best players from across the globe with huge contracts.

India's top-ranked golfer Anirban Lahiri believed the hatred and animosity against the rebel LIV Golf Series has been misplaced. The lucrative LIV Golf Series is funded by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund and has left the golf world divided by poaching some of the best players from across the globe with huge contracts. LIV Golf is currently locked in a legal battle with the PGA Tour, which believes its status quo has been threatened by the introduction of the rebel series. While PGA has already banned the players who have signed with LIV Golf, DP World Tour - the other leading golf property in the world has only slapped fines. The PGA Tour had recently countersued LIV Golf accusing the Saudi-backed league of attracting players unfairly by offering them whopping contracts. While the legal battle continues, the numerous top stars who have joined LIV, have been enjoying life in the new circuit and hope for the animosity to take a backseat soon. Lahiri, who is the first Indian to have signed up with LIV Golf, spoke with WION on the sidelines of the Liv Golf invitational in Bangkok and said the game should not suffer because of the hatred towards the league. Lahiri also urged all parties involved to keep the interests of the fans above theirs. "It should not have started with so much vitriol and animosity. It was very misplaced. There are three angles to it the way I look at it, there is the business angle in terms of the organisation, there is the angle of the players which is us and where we find ourselves in all of this, and there are fans who love golf," said Lahiri. "I think the first aspect which is the organisational sort of animosity has spilt over to the second aspect which is the players and that is affecting the fans. I would love for the pyramid to be reversed where you put fans ahead and say let's make golf something that people love to watch like it used to be. And not force just one kind of golf on them. × Also Read: EXCLUSIVE! We saw the vision: Ian Poulter explains his decision to join LIV Golf, stirs world ranking debate It's not about good and bad. I think that's where this whole conversation has completely fallen on itself and golf has gotten divided. If you love golf, and you want to watch good golf that's all that should matter. Not one golf is good and the other golf is bad, I do not agree or subscribe to that. I think the focus needs to come back to golf," he explained. The Indian golfer revealed he has a lot of friends, who have understood his decision and have supported him in his choice while there are others who he has had a fallout with due to joining LIV Golf. Lahiri wants PGS Tour and LIV Golf to sort out their differences and learn to co-exist as he believes the game has suffered a lot already. "Just to begin with, it should not have gotten to where we have gotten. I have a lot of friends on the other side so to speak, who understand and get what I am doing and are okay with it. I have some who have fallen out with me which is really sad to see and that's something that needs to go away," said Lahiri. "At the end of the day, we all respect each other, everybody is making their own decisions on their own choices which is fine but at the end of the day, I don't think golf should suffer. I think golf has suffered enough in the last few months. Going forward, if the organisations can put their spat aside, I think it will be good for golf in the long run and it has to go that way, it has to co-exist," he added. Also Read: Exclusive | Asia is sleeping giant to help game reach non-traditional destinations: LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman Being a professional golfer is not an easy job as Lahir, like many others, has to spend days away from family while playing on tours. However, the Indian golfer considers himself lucky to be doing what he has grown up loving and credits his family for their sacrifices which allow him to focus on his job on the field. "I don't look at it negatively, I think we are very privileged to be doing what we are doing. We are very honoured to have this life, to be able to play a sport that you love for a living is something that I will never take lightly. Yes every job has its demands, and if you look at the job of playing professional golf, there is a huge demand on the family, the cost is borne by the wife and the kids," Lahiri said. "Because once we get to a tournament, we are so focused on what we are doing. We kind of go into an alternate space where it's routine, I need to go to the gym, wake up do this, stretch, play, work out, and practice, we are almost so regimented that everything else ceases to exist for us so we are physically, emotionally absent from the rest of your family. When you are single, you are young, and it's easy to do that but I do feel like I am getting pulled in other directions which is why moving to LIV Golf, playing a little less and spending time with the family was also something that attracted me towards it," he added. ×

Exclusive! Hatred for LIV Golf has been misplaced, says India's no.1 Anirban Lahiri

India's top-ranked golfer Anirban Lahiri believes that the hatred directed towards the LIV Series has been misplaced. In an exclusive conversation with WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, Lahiri said that golf has suffered due to the battle between LIV and the PGA Tour.

WION Sports Exclusive: India No. 1 Lahiri says 'Hatred for LIV has been misplaced'

India's Anirban Lahiri compiled another fine round of 5-under 65 to go with his first-round 66 and moved into fourth place at the LIV Golf Invitational Series event.

Lahiri was 9-under and just three behind the leader, Talor Gooch (63-65), while Joaquin Neumann, also a newcomer like&nbsp;Lahiri, was second with rounds of 64-65. Dustin Johnson (67-63) was third. Lahiri, making his LIV debut, had seven birdies and two bogeys after a bogey-free first round.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/raise-a-drink-qatar-to-allow-beers-sales-at-fifa-world-cup-2022-matches-3-hours-before-kick-off-512796" hreflang="en">Raise a drink! Qatar to allow beers sales at FIFA World Cup 2022 matches 3 hours before kick-off</a>

Gooch enters the final round at The International's Oaks Course with a one-stroke lead at 12 under after shooting a 5-under 65. Johnson, the 4 Aces captain, was in solo third at 10 under after his 7-under 63.

Sandwiched in between was LIV Golf newcomer Joaquin Niemann, the Torque GC captain who matched Gooch's 65 and was at 11 under.

The 4 Aces GC has won two consecutive team titles but not yet produced an individual champion in the first three LIV Golf events.

In the team standings, 4 Aces GC was at 22 under and had a three-stroke lead over Phil Mickelson's Hy Flyers GC, with Iron Heads GC another stroke back.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no1-iga-swiatek-tames-lauren-davis-to-reach-us-open-fourth-round-512768" hreflang="en">World no.1 Iga Swiatek tames Lauren Davis to reach US Open fourth round</a>

Both Gooch and Johnson have finished inside the top 10 in each of the first three events and were in good shape to maintain those streaks.

Niemann also had chances to go lower but missed several short putts, including two lip-outs on consecutive holes. Still, he's settled in nicely after joining LIV earlier this week.

On Friday night, LIV Golf announced that players would be allowed to wear shorts during competition rounds, starting immediately. A good number of the 48 players took advantage of the new rule and wore shorts.

India's Anirban Lahiri compiled another fine round of 5-under 65 to go with his first-round 66 and moved into fourth place at the LIV Golf Invitational Series event.

India's Anirban Lahiri compiled another fine round of 5-under 65 to go with his first-round 66 and moved into fourth place at the LIV Golf Invitational Series event. Lahiri was 9-under and just three behind the leader, Talor Gooch (63-65), while Joaquin Neumann, also a newcomer like Lahiri, was second with rounds of 64-65. Dustin Johnson (67-63) was third. Lahiri, making his LIV debut, had seven birdies and two bogeys after a bogey-free first round. ALSO READ: Raise a drink! Qatar to allow beers sales at FIFA World Cup 2022 matches 3 hours before kick-off Gooch enters the final round at The International's Oaks Course with a one-stroke lead at 12 under after shooting a 5-under 65. Johnson, the 4 Aces captain, was in solo third at 10 under after his 7-under 63. Sandwiched in between was LIV Golf newcomer Joaquin Niemann, the Torque GC captain who matched Gooch's 65 and was at 11 under. The 4 Aces GC has won two consecutive team titles but not yet produced an individual champion in the first three LIV Golf events. In the team standings, 4 Aces GC was at 22 under and had a three-stroke lead over Phil Mickelson's Hy Flyers GC, with Iron Heads GC another stroke back. ALSO READ: World no.1 Iga Swiatek tames Lauren Davis to reach US Open fourth round Both Gooch and Johnson have finished inside the top 10 in each of the first three events and were in good shape to maintain those streaks. Niemann also had chances to go lower but missed several short putts, including two lip-outs on consecutive holes. Still, he's settled in nicely after joining LIV earlier this week. On Friday night, LIV Golf announced that players would be allowed to wear shorts during competition rounds, starting immediately. A good number of the 48 players took advantage of the new rule and wore shorts.

LIV Golf Series: India's Anirban Lahiri moves into fourth place

The LIV Golf vs PGA Tour debate continues to make headlines in golf. While the Greg Norman's LIV Golf Series is being criticised by many, it has signed up some big names in recent times. Among all, world number two Cameron Smith's joining has grabbed eyeballs at a whopping price,&nbsp;with the figure estimated&nbsp;to be $100 million (£85 million) as per&nbsp;journalist Daniel Rapaport.

A section has openly come hard to Smith for switching from PGA Tour to LIV Golf and, thus, the 29-year-old Aussie finally opened up on his recent move. While the British Open winner has the first to admit that money was a factor as well in his switch, he feels 'this is the future of golf'.&nbsp;

Speaking ahead of his debut in the LIV Golf Invitational Series in Boston this week, Smith spilled the beans on his decision to become a part of the Saudi-backed venture. He said, "You know, I'm just really excited to be here. This is a new kind of chapter in my life. I think this is the future of golf. I love how it is out here. It's a little bit more laid back on the range, the music playing. I love that stuff. I play music at home and yeah, I just can't wait to be a part of this.”

Further, he mentioned the pros of LIV Golf series and pointed out,&nbsp;"I think it needs to change. Particularly as our golf fans become younger, I think we need to do something to make it exciting for them. I think it's the right move for sure."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-liv-golf-has-definitely-been-a-catalyst-for-the-games-growth-says-anirban-lahiri-511660">EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri</a>

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"I've had a few phone calls with players. I sat down with Jay. We had a good conversation. It has been a little bit different. But this for me was the right decision. You know, I think this is the future of golf. I think it's been the same for a very, very long time, and it needs to be stirred up a little bit," Smith asserted further.

Like many other players, Smith also stressed that being closer to his family after joining LIV Golf Series is a huge asset. He added, "For me the biggest attraction was spending more time at home. Getting that part of my life back. It's something that I've really missed. I think obviously the pandemic that we've had over the last couple years didn't really help out, but you know, for me to be able to go home, see my family, and play golf there more often, that was a really big up for me."

The latest list of joinees on Liv Tour&nbsp;includes the likes of Chile's Joaquin Niemann, India's Anirban Lahiri,&nbsp;American duo Harold Varner and Cameron Tringale along with superstar Smith.

The LIV Golf vs PGA Tour debate continues to make headlines in golf. While the Greg Norman's LIV Golf Series is being criticised by many, it has signed up some big names in recent times.

The LIV Golf vs PGA Tour debate continues to make headlines in golf. While the Greg Norman's LIV Golf Series is being criticised by many, it has signed up some big names in recent times. Among all, world number two Cameron Smith's joining has grabbed eyeballs at a whopping price, with the figure estimated to be $100 million (£85 million) as per journalist Daniel Rapaport. A section has openly come hard to Smith for switching from PGA Tour to LIV Golf and, thus, the 29-year-old Aussie finally opened up on his recent move. While the British Open winner has the first to admit that money was a factor as well in his switch, he feels 'this is the future of golf'. Speaking ahead of his debut in the LIV Golf Invitational Series in Boston this week, Smith spilled the beans on his decision to become a part of the Saudi-backed venture. He said, "You know, I'm just really excited to be here. This is a new kind of chapter in my life. I think this is the future of golf. I love how it is out here. It's a little bit more laid back on the range, the music playing. I love that stuff. I play music at home and yeah, I just can't wait to be a part of this.” Further, he mentioned the pros of LIV Golf series and pointed out, "I think it needs to change. Particularly as our golf fans become younger, I think we need to do something to make it exciting for them. I think it's the right move for sure." ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri × "I've had a few phone calls with players. I sat down with Jay. We had a good conversation. It has been a little bit different. But this for me was the right decision. You know, I think this is the future of golf. I think it's been the same for a very, very long time, and it needs to be stirred up a little bit," Smith asserted further. Like many other players, Smith also stressed that being closer to his family after joining LIV Golf Series is a huge asset. He added, "For me the biggest attraction was spending more time at home. Getting that part of my life back. It's something that I've really missed. I think obviously the pandemic that we've had over the last couple years didn't really help out, but you know, for me to be able to go home, see my family, and play golf there more often, that was a really big up for me." The latest list of joinees on Liv Tour includes the likes of Chile's Joaquin Niemann, India's Anirban Lahiri, American duo Harold Varner and Cameron Tringale along with superstar Smith.

'I think this is the future of golf' - Cameron Smith on his decision to sign-up for LIV Golf

The Breakaway Liv Golf Series has pulled off another major coup by prising away six players from the PGA Tour. World No. 2 Cameron Smith is the highest ranked player to join the rebel circuit, while India's Anirban Lahiri is also among the new recruits. In an exclusive Interview with WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, Lahiri explained his decision to defect to the Saudi-Arabia Backed Series.

Exclusive: India's Anirban Lahiri opens up on Liv Golf move | WION Sports

India's top player Anirban Lahiri, who recently became the first Indian-origin player to join the ranks of the breakaway league LIV Golf,&nbsp;recently drew parallels between Tiger Woods and Sachin Tendulkar, commenting on Woods' reluctance to join the Saudi-backed tour and Tendulkar skipping the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy recently joined forces to introduce a new league to counter the looming threat of the LIV Golf league. The TGL, which is the brainchild of TMRW Sports, a company that was founded with Woods and McIlroy's support. It&nbsp;was formed in partnership with the PGA Tour as it aims to attract a new set of eyes to the sport and to facilitate the influx of youngsters into the sport. The veteran Indian golfer discussed the prospects of the league while in conversation with&nbsp;WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-liv-golf-has-definitely-been-a-catalyst-for-the-games-growth-says-anirban-lahiri-511660" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri</a>

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Excerpts:

Q. What do you make of this, what's been seen as sort of a power grab on the tour with Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy sort of leading the pushback against LIV Golf? There's a lot of people who say that it's only going to make those people who already have, much more richer with all these elevated tournaments. And that are people like you, who were the ones who were actually scrapping out there on the course to be financially independent, it was actually not going to work for you. While the tour's response was that all the stars come together, it will always be the likes of Anirban and others who were below that Top-60, Top-70 level who were really going to get affected. Do you see that, going forward, leading to more disgruntlement?&nbsp;

Again, I don't want to speculate, but the fact is that if you look at professional golf, it's one of the few sports where, you know, say the 100th guy on the PGA Tour makes a million dollars and I'm talking only about prize money. But if you look at the Top-20 or 25 players in the world or on the PGA Tour, they make $5-6 million, in a great year they may make more than that. But their endorsement values are 6x, 7x, 8x, some of them are 10x. Right? But the guys between 90-125 who are making a million., their endorsements are worth half-x, or 1x at most. So yeah, there is a huge disparity already, and that disparity may increase with elevated events.

But it's also going to make people aspire to break in. So it works. Like I said, it's very easy for me to look at the glass as half empty, but there is also a lot of half full to it. Yes, the absolute top, the creme de la creme, the Top-5, the Top-10, are definitely going to make exponentially more money going forward, not just from the elevated events, also from the other venture that Tiger and Rory are trying to spearhead and kind of birth, and in my opinion, it's all good. I don't care. As long as more golfers are created, as long as golf wins, as long as people say, 'Man, there is great opportunity in this sport, I want my kids to play this game.' I don't care. Because the sport is growing, there's going to be influx there's going to be TV and it's what it is.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anriban-lahiri-becomes-first-indian-to-sign-up-with-rebel-liv-golf-tour-511561" hreflang="en">Anirban Lahiri becomes first Indian to sign up with rebel Liv Golf Tour</a>

So many people I've told, 'Man, why are you... shotgun start is three days, why are you doing this?' I'm like, When IPL, forget IPL, when T20 cricket started, 15-18 years ago, I know (Sachin Tendulkar) didn't go for the World Cup. He could have, he says, 'No, I'm not going to go.' So, we've got Sachin, we got (Tiger Woods), saying, 'I'm not going. This is not golf. I believe in this.' Which is fine, but who's to say that this doesn't become the IPL of tomorrow? Who's to say that this doesn't become the preferred, consumable format for golf? We don't know.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India's top player Anirban Lahiri, who recently became the first Indian-origin player to join the ranks of the breakaway league LIV Golf, recently drew parallels between Tiger Woods and Sachin Tendulkar, commenting on Woods' reluctance to join the Saudi-backed tour and Tendulkar skipping the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup.

India's top player Anirban Lahiri, who recently became the first Indian-origin player to join the ranks of the breakaway league LIV Golf, recently drew parallels between Tiger Woods and Sachin Tendulkar, commenting on Woods' reluctance to join the Saudi-backed tour and Tendulkar skipping the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup. Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy recently joined forces to introduce a new league to counter the looming threat of the LIV Golf league. The TGL, which is the brainchild of TMRW Sports, a company that was founded with Woods and McIlroy's support. It was formed in partnership with the PGA Tour as it aims to attract a new set of eyes to the sport and to facilitate the influx of youngsters into the sport. The veteran Indian golfer discussed the prospects of the league while in conversation with WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri × Excerpts: Q. What do you make of this, what's been seen as sort of a power grab on the tour with Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy sort of leading the pushback against LIV Golf? There's a lot of people who say that it's only going to make those people who already have, much more richer with all these elevated tournaments. And that are people like you, who were the ones who were actually scrapping out there on the course to be financially independent, it was actually not going to work for you. While the tour's response was that all the stars come together, it will always be the likes of Anirban and others who were below that Top-60, Top-70 level who were really going to get affected. Do you see that, going forward, leading to more disgruntlement? Again, I don't want to speculate, but the fact is that if you look at professional golf, it's one of the few sports where, you know, say the 100th guy on the PGA Tour makes a million dollars and I'm talking only about prize money. But if you look at the Top-20 or 25 players in the world or on the PGA Tour, they make $5-6 million, in a great year they may make more than that. But their endorsement values are 6x, 7x, 8x, some of them are 10x. Right? But the guys between 90-125 who are making a million., their endorsements are worth half-x, or 1x at most. So yeah, there is a huge disparity already, and that disparity may increase with elevated events. But it's also going to make people aspire to break in. So it works. Like I said, it's very easy for me to look at the glass as half empty, but there is also a lot of half full to it. Yes, the absolute top, the creme de la creme, the Top-5, the Top-10, are definitely going to make exponentially more money going forward, not just from the elevated events, also from the other venture that Tiger and Rory are trying to spearhead and kind of birth, and in my opinion, it's all good. I don't care. As long as more golfers are created, as long as golf wins, as long as people say, 'Man, there is great opportunity in this sport, I want my kids to play this game.' I don't care. Because the sport is growing, there's going to be influx there's going to be TV and it's what it is. ALSO READ: Anirban Lahiri becomes first Indian to sign up with rebel Liv Golf Tour So many people I've told, 'Man, why are you... shotgun start is three days, why are you doing this?' I'm like, When IPL, forget IPL, when T20 cricket started, 15-18 years ago, I know (Sachin Tendulkar) didn't go for the World Cup. He could have, he says, 'No, I'm not going to go.' So, we've got Sachin, we got (Tiger Woods), saying, 'I'm not going. This is not golf. I believe in this.' Which is fine, but who's to say that this doesn't become the IPL of tomorrow? Who's to say that this doesn't become the preferred, consumable format for golf? We don't know.

EXCLUSIVE | Anirban Lahiri likens Woods’ contempt for LIV Golf with Tendulkar skipping T20 World Cup

On Tuesday (August 30), Anirban Lahiri became the first-ever Indian golfer to become a part of the LIV Golf Tour. The Saudi-backed LIV Series has grabbed a lot of eyeballs and faced the heat from plenty in the recent past, including veteran golfer Tiger Woods.&nbsp;

However, Lahiri joined a plethora of big names to be a part of LIV Golf, including British Open winner Cameron Smith. He has now become the&nbsp;first Asian to sign up with Liv Golf. The latest list of joinees on Liv Tour&nbsp;includes The Open champion&nbsp;Smith (Australia),&nbsp;Chile's Joaquin Niemann and American duo Harold Varner and Cameron Tringale. Hence, Lahiri's joining can be seen as an opportunity to target the ever-growing Asian golf market. While the financial details of the veteran Indian golfer are not known yet, the 35-year-old spoke to WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo and dwelled on the much-debated LIV Golf vs PGA Tour, his reason for making the switch and more.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EXCLUSIVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EXCLUSIVE</a> | Indian ace Anirban Lahiri was unveiled as a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVGolf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVGolf</a> player on Tuesday, and the 35-year-old will play the Boston invitational later this week. <a href="https://twitter.com/anirbangolf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anirbangolf</a> spoke to WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiggySinghDeo</a> and explained why he felt the time was right to leave the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PGATour?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PGATour</a> <a href="https://t.co/O28AlyERbv">pic.twitter.com/O28AlyERbv</a>
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Excerpts:

Q. The breakaway LIV Golf series continues to defy its detractors. Six new players including World number two Cameron Smith have joined the LIV series. Anirban when did you decide to move on from PGA Tour?

I don't think it is the right way to put it, Diggy (smiles). It was about exploring another option. It was also exploring an alternative way. To answer your question, it was after the first event happened in London. Some of my friends were playing and I spoke to them. They said that while it has received a lot of scrutiny, it isn't what everybody is saying it is. That's when I started considering it and then it evolved from there.

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Q. What is it about LIV Golf that makes it worthwhile for you to join?

I think that is a good question. Everybody has joined for personal reasons. For me, I have been in the US, fully committed to the PGA Tour. It has been seven years. A lot of things have transpired in those seven years. I have tried to work on my form, fix my issues and keep my game in good shape. At times, when you come back from a tournament schedule, I have found it difficult to blow off steam. But it hasn't felt like it at times. I have become a father twice so it gets difficult. It especially gets difficult when you don't have a family, friends, or a support system that you would like to have, not just personally but for your kids. I've asked myself 'Why am I doing this?'. So, it also comes at a cost. It was always about coming back home, closer to India, give back to the game and contributing to my family.

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Welcome to LIV <a href="https://twitter.com/anirbangolf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anirbangolf</a> 👋<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVGolf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVGolf</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z7viqmMp30">pic.twitter.com/Z7viqmMp30</a>
— LIV Golf (@LIVGolfInv) <a href="https://twitter.com/LIVGolfInv/status/1564605539795046405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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When LIV came along, I was like 'wow, here is an opportunity for me to actually make that all a reality'. With this schedule, I can still play 8-9 times or how many times they are going to play in the US. The scheduling will be done to maximise the travel. I will be playing in Asia, with young Indian professionals. I will be able to see my coach and have my family and friends. In a nutshell, the positives were outweighing the individual pursuit of my own goals.

<blockquote>
Speaking to Golf Digest, Smith had pointed out that the&nbsp;money was a “factor” but not the “biggest reason” why he decided on jumping from PGA Tour to LIV.

“It was obviously a business decision for one and an offer I couldn’t ignore,” Smith said.

“The biggest thing for me joining is [LIV’s] schedule is really appealing. I’ll be able to spend more time at home in Australia and maybe have an event down there, as well. I haven’t been able to do that, and to get that part of my life back was really appealing.”
</blockquote>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anriban-lahiri-becomes-first-indian-to-sign-up-with-rebel-liv-golf-tour-511561">Anirban Lahiri becomes first Indian to sign up with rebel Liv Golf Tour</a>

Q. You would've obviously weighed up the options. There are going to be new elevated tournaments. More money. Also, with your FedEx Cup rankings just outside the top 70, you would've got&nbsp;an opportunity to play all those events as a guaranteed starter, compared to the PGA Tour.

I think the changes brought forward are fantastic. This season is probably the best time to be a professional golfer because the opportunities are immense. If not because of LIV Golf, it has definitely been a catalyst. To answer your question, there are opportunities. I will be honest, if I was really happy with my life in the US and&nbsp;not come back, I could. The US government would run to give me a green card, being an athlete. I came to America because it was the best decision for my job.

If I was really happy, I wouldn't have left. Because you said very rightly that the financial aspects are there in the PGA Tour as well. But if you look at the opportunities in LIV Golf, I have plenty.

On Tuesday (August 30), Anirban Lahiri became the first-ever Indian golfer to become a part of the LIV Golf Tour. The Saudi-backed LIV Series has grabbed a lot of eyeballs and faced the heat from plenty in the recent past, including veteran golfer Tiger Woods.

On Tuesday (August 30), Anirban Lahiri became the first-ever Indian golfer to become a part of the LIV Golf Tour. The Saudi-backed LIV Series has grabbed a lot of eyeballs and faced the heat from plenty in the recent past, including veteran golfer Tiger Woods. However, Lahiri joined a plethora of big names to be a part of LIV Golf, including British Open winner Cameron Smith. He has now become the first Asian to sign up with Liv Golf. The latest list of joinees on Liv Tour includes The Open champion Smith (Australia), Chile's Joaquin Niemann and American duo Harold Varner and Cameron Tringale. Hence, Lahiri's joining can be seen as an opportunity to target the ever-growing Asian golf market. While the financial details of the veteran Indian golfer are not known yet, the 35-year-old spoke to WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo and dwelled on the much-debated LIV Golf vs PGA Tour, his reason for making the switch and more. #EXCLUSIVE | Indian ace Anirban Lahiri was unveiled as a #LIVGolf player on Tuesday, and the 35-year-old will play the Boston invitational later this week. @anirbangolf spoke to WION's @DiggySinghDeo and explained why he felt the time was right to leave the #PGATour pic.twitter.com/O28AlyERbv — WION (@WIONews) August 31, 2022 × Excerpts: Q. The breakaway LIV Golf series continues to defy its detractors. Six new players including World number two Cameron Smith have joined the LIV series. Anirban when did you decide to move on from PGA Tour? I don't think it is the right way to put it, Diggy (smiles). It was about exploring another option. It was also exploring an alternative way. To answer your question, it was after the first event happened in London. Some of my friends were playing and I spoke to them. They said that while it has received a lot of scrutiny, it isn't what everybody is saying it is. That's when I started considering it and then it evolved from there. × Q. What is it about LIV Golf that makes it worthwhile for you to join? I think that is a good question. Everybody has joined for personal reasons. For me, I have been in the US, fully committed to the PGA Tour. It has been seven years. A lot of things have transpired in those seven years. I have tried to work on my form, fix my issues and keep my game in good shape. At times, when you come back from a tournament schedule, I have found it difficult to blow off steam. But it hasn't felt like it at times. I have become a father twice so it gets difficult. It especially gets difficult when you don't have a family, friends, or a support system that you would like to have, not just personally but for your kids. I've asked myself 'Why am I doing this?'. So, it also comes at a cost. It was always about coming back home, closer to India, give back to the game and contributing to my family. Welcome to LIV @anirbangolf 👋#LIVGolf pic.twitter.com/Z7viqmMp30 — LIV Golf (@LIVGolfInv) August 30, 2022 × When LIV came along, I was like 'wow, here is an opportunity for me to actually make that all a reality'. With this schedule, I can still play 8-9 times or how many times they are going to play in the US. The scheduling will be done to maximise the travel. I will be playing in Asia, with young Indian professionals. I will be able to see my coach and have my family and friends. In a nutshell, the positives were outweighing the individual pursuit of my own goals. Speaking to Golf Digest, Smith had pointed out that the money was a “factor” but not the “biggest reason” why he decided on jumping from PGA Tour to LIV. “It was obviously a business decision for one and an offer I couldn’t ignore,” Smith said. “The biggest thing for me joining is [LIV’s] schedule is really appealing. I’ll be able to spend more time at home in Australia and maybe have an event down there, as well. I haven’t been able to do that, and to get that part of my life back was really appealing.” ALSO READ | Anirban Lahiri becomes first Indian to sign up with rebel Liv Golf Tour Q. You would've obviously weighed up the options. There are going to be new elevated tournaments. More money. Also, with your FedEx Cup rankings just outside the top 70, you would've got an opportunity to play all those events as a guaranteed starter, compared to the PGA Tour. I think the changes brought forward are fantastic. This season is probably the best time to be a professional golfer because the opportunities are immense. If not because of LIV Golf, it has definitely been a catalyst. To answer your question, there are opportunities. I will be honest, if I was really happy with my life in the US and not come back, I could. The US government would run to give me a green card, being an athlete. I came to America because it was the best decision for my job. If I was really happy, I wouldn't have left. Because you said very rightly that the financial aspects are there in the PGA Tour as well. But if you look at the opportunities in LIV Golf, I have plenty.

EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri

The breakaway Liv Golf series is not 'dead in the water' as once famously claimed by Rory Mcilroy earlier this year and continues to shake up the golfing landscape. Indian ace Anirban Lahiri was unveiled as a LIV Golf player on Tuesday and the 35-year-old will play the Boston invitational later this week. Lahiri spoke to Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo and explained why he felt the time was right to leave the PGA Tour.

Anirban Lahiri joins Liv Golf, hopes to finally 'have a life'

Anirban Lahiri has become the first Indian to join the LIV Golf Tour and is set to make his debut on the rebel tour with the event in Boston this week. Lahiri could not be contacted on his big switch to Liv from PGA Tour but is said to be in the field of 48 players to be announced late on Tuesday evening here.

Lahiri becomes the first Indian and the first Asian to sign up with Liv Golf. Viraj Madappa played in the opening event after qualifying through an International Series event in Asia. The latest list of joinees on Liv Tour include The Open champion Cameron Smith of Australia, Chile's Joaquin Niemann and Americans Harold Varner and Cameron Tringale.

The financial details of Lahiri's Liv contract are not known yet. However, the figure being floated around in Smith's case is around USD 140m. Almost all the 48 players are expected to tee up at this week's LIV Golf event here.

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Welcome to LIV <a href="https://twitter.com/anirbangolf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anirbangolf</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVGolf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVGolf</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z7viqmMp30">pic.twitter.com/Z7viqmMp30</a>
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The PGA Tour is expected to take action against them, which would bar them from playing its events. Lahiri has been playing on the PGA Tour since 2015-16. He has however not won on the PGA Tour, but finished second at the Players Championships behind Smith.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-2-cameron-smith-and-marc-leishman-join-greg-normans-liv-golf-511471">World No. 2 Cameron Smith and Marc Leishman join Greg Norman’s LIV Golf</a>

Though Smith is the biggest catch for Liv, the signing up of Lahiri according to sources in Boston, seems to have been done with eye on the growing Asian golf market. Liv is also backing Asian Tour, which is where Lahiri came from and is a former Asian Tour No. 1.

World number two Smith has been the most talked about inductee into the Liv Golf. He won the Open in July and also played the PGA FedEx Cup playoffs. Niemann also played at the FedEx Cup playoffs.

Only Tringale has issued a letter on social media, while Smith has remained tight-lipped as have the others including Lahiri.

LIV Golf Series has been putting up record USD 25 million purses with a 54-hole format and no cut. The purse includes USD 5 million set aside for a team event within the format.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liv-golf-joins-anti-trust-lawsuit-against-pga-tour-alleges-torturous-interference-510862">LIV Golf joins anti-trust lawsuit against PGA Tour, alleges 'torturous interference'</a>

Some big names part of the series include Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Patrick Reed, Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, Sergio Garcia, Henrik Stenson, Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter.

Others include South African Branden Grace, who won the Liv Golf Invitational in Portland, Charl Schwartzel, also a winner on Liv Golf, Louis Oosthuizen and Mexico's Abraham Ancer and Carlos Ortiz.

Anirban Lahiri has become the first Indian to join the LIV Golf Tour and is set to make his debut on the rebel tour with the event in Boston this week. Lahiri could not be contacted on his big switch to Liv from PGA Tour but is said to be in the field of 48 players to be announced late on Tuesday evening here.

Anirban Lahiri has become the first Indian to join the LIV Golf Tour and is set to make his debut on the rebel tour with the event in Boston this week. Lahiri could not be contacted on his big switch to Liv from PGA Tour but is said to be in the field of 48 players to be announced late on Tuesday evening here. Lahiri becomes the first Indian and the first Asian to sign up with Liv Golf. Viraj Madappa played in the opening event after qualifying through an International Series event in Asia. The latest list of joinees on Liv Tour include The Open champion Cameron Smith of Australia, Chile's Joaquin Niemann and Americans Harold Varner and Cameron Tringale. The financial details of Lahiri's Liv contract are not known yet. However, the figure being floated around in Smith's case is around USD 140m. Almost all the 48 players are expected to tee up at this week's LIV Golf event here. Welcome to LIV @anirbangolf #LIVGolf pic.twitter.com/Z7viqmMp30 — LIV Golf (@LIVGolfInv) August 30, 2022 × The PGA Tour is expected to take action against them, which would bar them from playing its events. Lahiri has been playing on the PGA Tour since 2015-16. He has however not won on the PGA Tour, but finished second at the Players Championships behind Smith. Also Read: World No. 2 Cameron Smith and Marc Leishman join Greg Norman’s LIV Golf Though Smith is the biggest catch for Liv, the signing up of Lahiri according to sources in Boston, seems to have been done with eye on the growing Asian golf market. Liv is also backing Asian Tour, which is where Lahiri came from and is a former Asian Tour No. 1. World number two Smith has been the most talked about inductee into the Liv Golf. He won the Open in July and also played the PGA FedEx Cup playoffs. Niemann also played at the FedEx Cup playoffs. Only Tringale has issued a letter on social media, while Smith has remained tight-lipped as have the others including Lahiri. LIV Golf Series has been putting up record USD 25 million purses with a 54-hole format and no cut. The purse includes USD 5 million set aside for a team event within the format. Also Read: LIV Golf joins anti-trust lawsuit against PGA Tour, alleges 'torturous interference' Some big names part of the series include Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Patrick Reed, Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, Sergio Garcia, Henrik Stenson, Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter. Others include South African Branden Grace, who won the Liv Golf Invitational in Portland, Charl Schwartzel, also a winner on Liv Golf, Louis Oosthuizen and Mexico's Abraham Ancer and Carlos Ortiz.

Anirban Lahiri becomes first Indian to sign up with rebel Liv Golf Tour

In their latest move against the PGA Tour, the Saudi-backed league, LIV Golf, recently managed to lure in six players to compete under their promotional banner.&nbsp;

One among their latest haul of players is Cameron Smith, the reigning Players Championship winner and last month's British Open winner, which took place on the Old Course at St. Andrews, Scotland.&nbsp;

By joining the breakaway league, Smith has effectively consolidated his position on the LIV Golf roster as their highest-ranked player.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pga-tour-chief-bolsters-prizes-for-competitors-as-rivalry-with-liv-golf-heats-up-510068" hreflang="en">PGA Tour raises prize money, benefits for players as rivalry with LIV Golf heats up</a>

A source, in a recent interaction with Sports Illustrated, revealed that Cam Smith will be joined by the likes of&nbsp;Anirban Lahiri,&nbsp;Joaquin Niemann,&nbsp;Cameron Tringale, Mito Pereira and&nbsp;Marc Leishman at the&nbsp;LIV Golf event outside of Boston.

However, when LIV Golf was approached to make comments to confirm or deny the reports, a representative expressed reluctance in making a comment, admitting that they did not want to 'comment on speculation'.

The rumour&nbsp;mill has been running rampant for weeks, breathing new life into rumours and speculations about Smith jumping ship. The Australian has been linked to a move to LIV Golf for weeks now.&nbsp;

However, he had previously avoided answering questions about the same while in conversation with the media&nbsp;at the Open and the FedEx St. Jude Championship, which took place merely two weeks ago.&nbsp; One must consider the fact that at the age of 29, time is not on Cam Smith's side.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liv-golf-joins-anti-trust-lawsuit-against-pga-tour-alleges-torturous-interference-510862" hreflang="en">LIV Golf joins anti-trust lawsuit against PGA Tour, alleges 'torturous interference'</a>

However, the same cannot be said about&nbsp;Joaquin Niemann, who laid claim to the Genesis Open, which took place early this year. When Niemann joins the ranks of LIV Golf, he could become the second-highest ranked player on their roster.

It is interesting to note that Smith and Niemann were among the players who were invited to the Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy-led players-only meeting, which took place in&nbsp;Wilmington, Delaware, where they discussed strategies and solutions to deal with what seems like a coup being conducted by&nbsp;LIV Golf.

In their latest move against the PGA Tour, the Saudi-backed league, LIV Golf, recently managed to lure in six players to compete under their promotional banner. One among their latest haul of players is Cameron Smith, the reigning Players Championship winner and last month's British Open winner, which took place on the Old Course at St.

In their latest move against the PGA Tour, the Saudi-backed league, LIV Golf, recently managed to lure in six players to compete under their promotional banner. One among their latest haul of players is Cameron Smith, the reigning Players Championship winner and last month's British Open winner, which took place on the Old Course at St. Andrews, Scotland. By joining the breakaway league, Smith has effectively consolidated his position on the LIV Golf roster as their highest-ranked player. ALSO READ: PGA Tour raises prize money, benefits for players as rivalry with LIV Golf heats up A source, in a recent interaction with Sports Illustrated, revealed that Cam Smith will be joined by the likes of Anirban Lahiri, Joaquin Niemann, Cameron Tringale, Mito Pereira and Marc Leishman at the LIV Golf event outside of Boston. However, when LIV Golf was approached to make comments to confirm or deny the reports, a representative expressed reluctance in making a comment, admitting that they did not want to 'comment on speculation'. The rumour mill has been running rampant for weeks, breathing new life into rumours and speculations about Smith jumping ship. The Australian has been linked to a move to LIV Golf for weeks now. However, he had previously avoided answering questions about the same while in conversation with the media at the Open and the FedEx St. Jude Championship, which took place merely two weeks ago. One must consider the fact that at the age of 29, time is not on Cam Smith's side. ALSO READ: LIV Golf joins anti-trust lawsuit against PGA Tour, alleges 'torturous interference' However, the same cannot be said about Joaquin Niemann, who laid claim to the Genesis Open, which took place early this year. When Niemann joins the ranks of LIV Golf, he could become the second-highest ranked player on their roster. It is interesting to note that Smith and Niemann were among the players who were invited to the Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy-led players-only meeting, which took place in Wilmington, Delaware, where they discussed strategies and solutions to deal with what seems like a coup being conducted by LIV Golf.

LIV Golf acquires Cameron Smith, Anirban Lahiri and four more players from PGA Tour's roster: Report

Anirban Lahiri suffered a big drop on the leaderboard as he shot 3-over 74 and fell to tied 61st at the end of the John Deere Classic here. He was tied 24th at the end of the second round. After a fine 67 in the second round the 74 in the third was a disappointment and a big blow to his hopes of making it to the 150th Open in two weeks. He however has another chance at the Scottish Open, which will be joint-sanctioned with the PGA Tour.

Lahiri had two birdies on 10th and 11th and three bogeys and a double on the sixth. He missed a lot of putts as things just did not fall in place. It has been a tough run for Lahiri, who missed three starts before this week's John Deere. He was second at the PLAYER's Championship.

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Meanwhile, J.T. Poston made up for two back-nine bogeys with an eagle on the par-5 17th, shooting a 4-under 67 to take a three-stroke lead into the final round. Poston, who was tied second last week in the Travelers Championship in Connecticut, is now 19-under 194 at TPC Deere Run. Playing partner Denny McCarthy birdied the final two holes for a 66 to join Scott Stallings (64) and Emiliano Grillo (65) at 16-under.

Poston opened with rounds of 62 and 65 to take a four-stroke lead, then played the front nine in 3 under Saturday with birdies on Nos. 2, 5 and 8. He dropped a stroke on the par-3 12th, birdied the par-4 14th and bogeyed the par-4 15th before making the big putt on 17. The 29-year-old Poston won the 2019 Wyndham Championship for his lone PGA TOUR title.

Zach Johnson, the 2012 winner, was 8 under after a 67 in his 20th consecutive start in the event.

Anirban Lahiri suffered a big drop on the leaderboard as he shot 3-over 74 and fell to tied 61st at the end of the John Deere Classic here. He was tied 24th at the end of the second round.

Anirban Lahiri suffered a big drop on the leaderboard as he shot 3-over 74 and fell to tied 61st at the end of the John Deere Classic here. He was tied 24th at the end of the second round. After a fine 67 in the second round the 74 in the third was a disappointment and a big blow to his hopes of making it to the 150th Open in two weeks. He however has another chance at the Scottish Open, which will be joint-sanctioned with the PGA Tour. Lahiri had two birdies on 10th and 11th and three bogeys and a double on the sixth. He missed a lot of putts as things just did not fall in place. It has been a tough run for Lahiri, who missed three starts before this week's John Deere. He was second at the PLAYER's Championship. ALSO READ | Former Netherlands footballer Vera Pauw reveals she was raped during her playing days Meanwhile, J.T. Poston made up for two back-nine bogeys with an eagle on the par-5 17th, shooting a 4-under 67 to take a three-stroke lead into the final round. Poston, who was tied second last week in the Travelers Championship in Connecticut, is now 19-under 194 at TPC Deere Run. Playing partner Denny McCarthy birdied the final two holes for a 66 to join Scott Stallings (64) and Emiliano Grillo (65) at 16-under. Poston opened with rounds of 62 and 65 to take a four-stroke lead, then played the front nine in 3 under Saturday with birdies on Nos. 2, 5 and 8. He dropped a stroke on the par-3 12th, birdied the par-4 14th and bogeyed the par-4 15th before making the big putt on 17. The 29-year-old Poston won the 2019 Wyndham Championship for his lone PGA TOUR title. Zach Johnson, the 2012 winner, was 8 under after a 67 in his 20th consecutive start in the event.

Anirban Lahiri suffers big drop to tied 61st as J.T. Poston claims wire-to-wire win at John Deere Classic

India`s Anirban Lahiri overcame a sluggish start to fire a solid 4-under 68 and lie three strokes off the early first-round lead at the Texas Open on Thursday.

Lahiri, who finished runner-up at THE PLAYERS Championship three weeks ago, was 1-over through 10 holes at TPC San Antonio before powering home with five birdies, thanks largely to a putter which warmed up down the stretch.

Scotland`s Russell Knox opened with a 65 to lead the US$.8.6 million PGA Tour event.The 34-year-old Lahiri is attempting to win a career-first title in the U.S. after coming agonisingly close at the TOUR`s flagship tournament at TPC Sawgrass, and victory on Sunday would also secure a spot in next week`s Masters Tournament.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bruno-fernandes-signs-new-contract-extension-with-manchester-united-till-2026-467469" hreflang="en">Bruno Fernandes signs new contract extension with Manchester United till 2026</a>

"Today was about trying to find the same kind of rhythm to my routine, rhythm to how I was swinging the club. The body still feels a bit rusty. When I started, it was a bit cold and there was a bit of moisture on the surface and I was trying to get a good feel and speed of the greens," said Anirban Lahiri.

"I definitely wanted to get back into my rhythm after being away and battling an infection I picked up from my daughter. I was laid off in bed for a few days and didn`t play that much golf but I didn`t really hit a lot of bad shots."

Starting from the 10th, Lahiri navigated his opening 10 holes with two bogeys against a lone birdie before his putter started to find its range.

He rolled in a nine-footer on the second, a 23-footer on the fifth and then nailed three successive birdies from nine, 18 and 30 feet respectively to close out his round in style.

"On the back nine, I found the speed of the greens. I`ve played this course quite a bit and I understand the nature of this course. You try to just put yourself in good positions and places where you can make aggressive swings and aggressive putts. If you can do that, you can make a couple of birdies. The putter got a little warmer and it was a nice bonus on the last to get along the one which feels really good," said Lahiri, who finished solo fifth at TPC San Antonio last season.

Despite the high of his stellar finish at THE PLAYERS, Lahiri intends to keep his foot on the pedal in a bid to regain his place amongst golf`s elite. He was ranked as high as 33rd on the Official World Golf Ranking in 2015 and featured in the Presidents Cup twice for the International Team.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-ms-dhoni-becomes-first-wicketkeeper-to-reach-impressive-t20-milestone-467442" hreflang="en">IPL 2022: Dhoni becomes first wicketkeeper to reach impressive T20 milestone</a>

"THE PLAYERS Championship was fantastic and it`s in the past now. It`s time to move on and try to be in the present which was pretty much what I did. I`m just trying to do the same, stay in the present, stay in the now, do what I need to do, what I need to feel, what I need to work on. I`m just trying to get back to that and it`s nice to see my golf responding," said Lahiri.

South Korea`s Si Woo Kim and C.T. Pan of Chinese Taipei got off to good starts at the Valero Texas Open with matching 69s. Despite missing six greens in regulation, Pan, who is a one-time TOUR winner, kept the bogeys off his card while Kim posted five birdies against two bogeys.

Japanese star Hideki Matsuyama, who will defend his Masters` title next week, opened with a 74 in what is his first appearance since withdrawing from THE PLAYERS Championship due to a back injury.<o:p></o:p>

India`s Anirban Lahiri overcame a sluggish start to fire a solid 4-under 68 and lie three strokes off the early first-round lead at the Texas Open on Thursday. Lahiri, who finished runner-up at THE PLAYERS Championship three weeks ago, was 1-over through 10 holes at TPC San Antonio before powering home with five birdies, thanks largely to a putter which warmed up down the stretch.

India`s Anirban Lahiri overcame a sluggish start to fire a solid 4-under 68 and lie three strokes off the early first-round lead at the Texas Open on Thursday. Lahiri, who finished runner-up at THE PLAYERS Championship three weeks ago, was 1-over through 10 holes at TPC San Antonio before powering home with five birdies, thanks largely to a putter which warmed up down the stretch. Scotland`s Russell Knox opened with a 65 to lead the US$.8.6 million PGA Tour event.The 34-year-old Lahiri is attempting to win a career-first title in the U.S. after coming agonisingly close at the TOUR`s flagship tournament at TPC Sawgrass, and victory on Sunday would also secure a spot in next week`s Masters Tournament. Also read | Bruno Fernandes signs new contract extension with Manchester United till 2026 "Today was about trying to find the same kind of rhythm to my routine, rhythm to how I was swinging the club. The body still feels a bit rusty. When I started, it was a bit cold and there was a bit of moisture on the surface and I was trying to get a good feel and speed of the greens," said Anirban Lahiri. "I definitely wanted to get back into my rhythm after being away and battling an infection I picked up from my daughter. I was laid off in bed for a few days and didn`t play that much golf but I didn`t really hit a lot of bad shots." Starting from the 10th, Lahiri navigated his opening 10 holes with two bogeys against a lone birdie before his putter started to find its range. He rolled in a nine-footer on the second, a 23-footer on the fifth and then nailed three successive birdies from nine, 18 and 30 feet respectively to close out his round in style. "On the back nine, I found the speed of the greens. I`ve played this course quite a bit and I understand the nature of this course. You try to just put yourself in good positions and places where you can make aggressive swings and aggressive putts. If you can do that, you can make a couple of birdies. The putter got a little warmer and it was a nice bonus on the last to get along the one which feels really good," said Lahiri, who finished solo fifth at TPC San Antonio last season. Despite the high of his stellar finish at THE PLAYERS, Lahiri intends to keep his foot on the pedal in a bid to regain his place amongst golf`s elite. He was ranked as high as 33rd on the Official World Golf Ranking in 2015 and featured in the Presidents Cup twice for the International Team. Also read | IPL 2022: Dhoni becomes first wicketkeeper to reach impressive T20 milestone "THE PLAYERS Championship was fantastic and it`s in the past now. It`s time to move on and try to be in the present which was pretty much what I did. I`m just trying to do the same, stay in the present, stay in the now, do what I need to do, what I need to feel, what I need to work on. I`m just trying to get back to that and it`s nice to see my golf responding," said Lahiri. South Korea`s Si Woo Kim and C.T. Pan of Chinese Taipei got off to good starts at the Valero Texas Open with matching 69s. Despite missing six greens in regulation, Pan, who is a one-time TOUR winner, kept the bogeys off his card while Kim posted five birdies against two bogeys. Japanese star Hideki Matsuyama, who will defend his Masters` title next week, opened with a 74 in what is his first appearance since withdrawing from THE PLAYERS Championship due to a back injury.

India''s Anirban Lahiri fires solid 68 for strong start at Texas Open

In India, cricket remains the top priority among sports lovers but many other sports have grown in stature and continue to rise with each passing year (such as badminton, kabaddi, hockey, football, etc.) To date, golf is keenly followed across the world but in India, it is looked at as a niche sport. But Anirban Lahiri gave Indian golf a much-needed boost with his recent superlative performance as he&nbsp;finished runners-up in the Players Championship on Monday (March 14).

Anirban played his heart out but lost the top spot to Australia's Cameron Smith as he settled for the runners-up spot. After the impressive performance, he recently interacted with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo as he&nbsp;spoke on the processes he followed which led to his memorable performance and dwelled on various challenges he battled through during the Players C'ship.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-akshay-bhatia-world-golfs-new-sensation-450342">WION Exclusive: Akshay Bhatia, World Golf's new sensation</a>

So close, but still not close enough....

On his overall run, Anirban told, "Well, yeah. I was very deeply disappointed as I wanted to win badly. I was in a great position. Coming up short never feels good but it was such a long tournament. It took all of my physical and mental strength. When you come up short after all that, it feels bad but I can walk away with a lot of pride."

Stressing on the mental aspect which is challenged during a PGA Tour

In this regard, the golfer opined, "Funny enough, I have been training quite hard behind closed doors. The results haven't backed it up but I am working very&nbsp;hard on the mental aspect. I have a performance specialist that I work with, in Bengaluru. We have been working on routines, processes and trying to follow them rigorously. That came through this week. I wasn't thinking about prize money, field, points, or world rankings points. I was playing golf, staying in tune with my processes and that is what helped. It was one of the first time situations when I was leading for the majority part of the game and I was very happy about it (to remain in the present)."

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The Players C'ship was quite a challenging event for the golfers -- with tricky weather, playing conditions and lengthy duration of the tournament testing players to the hilt. Anirban analysed how he fought against various obstacles before falling short by a whisker.

Rain delays, weather being challenging, etc.

"I feel exhausted. I feel physically and mentally drained. We had a lot of rain on Thursday and Friday. Even on Wednesday. Saturday also was rainy. I had like five layers of clothing on during Sunday. It was&nbsp;freezing cold. Add to that, I was playing 52 holes. It was a very demanding tournament and week. Thus, mental aspect came into play and I feel I did a good job of economising all my mental and physical resources.

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Sahith Theegala: Indian-origin rookie who is making heads turn

Not only&nbsp;Anirban, the likes of Akshay Bhatia, Aditi Ashok and Sahith Theegala is also keeping the flag high in Indian golf. Talking about Sahith, he is an Indian-origin American golfer who has excelled in his&nbsp;amateur college career and is playing a rookie season on the PGA Tour.&nbsp;24-year-old is currently ranked 164, had his best result in Phoenix Open (T3) before returning with a cut in the Players C'ship. He also interacted with WION to share excerpts about&nbsp;his journey and the road ahead:

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Thus, it is safe to say that all these performances will give more belief and confidence to all Indian golfers to hone their skills, work hard on their game and not think&nbsp;that the&nbsp;PGA Tour is a bridge too far.&nbsp;

In India, cricket remains the top priority among sports lovers but many other sports have grown in stature and continue to rise with each passing year (such as badminton, kabaddi, hockey, football, etc.

In India, cricket remains the top priority among sports lovers but many other sports have grown in stature and continue to rise with each passing year (such as badminton, kabaddi, hockey, football, etc.) To date, golf is keenly followed across the world but in India, it is looked at as a niche sport. But Anirban Lahiri gave Indian golf a much-needed boost with his recent superlative performance as he finished runners-up in the Players Championship on Monday (March 14). Anirban played his heart out but lost the top spot to Australia's Cameron Smith as he settled for the runners-up spot. After the impressive performance, he recently interacted with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo as he spoke on the processes he followed which led to his memorable performance and dwelled on various challenges he battled through during the Players C'ship. ALSO READ | WION Exclusive: Akshay Bhatia, World Golf's new sensation So close, but still not close enough.... On his overall run, Anirban told, "Well, yeah. I was very deeply disappointed as I wanted to win badly. I was in a great position. Coming up short never feels good but it was such a long tournament. It took all of my physical and mental strength. When you come up short after all that, it feels bad but I can walk away with a lot of pride." Stressing on the mental aspect which is challenged during a PGA Tour In this regard, the golfer opined, "Funny enough, I have been training quite hard behind closed doors. The results haven't backed it up but I am working very hard on the mental aspect. I have a performance specialist that I work with, in Bengaluru. We have been working on routines, processes and trying to follow them rigorously. That came through this week. I wasn't thinking about prize money, field, points, or world rankings points. I was playing golf, staying in tune with my processes and that is what helped. It was one of the first time situations when I was leading for the majority part of the game and I was very happy about it (to remain in the present)." × The Players C'ship was quite a challenging event for the golfers -- with tricky weather, playing conditions and lengthy duration of the tournament testing players to the hilt. Anirban analysed how he fought against various obstacles before falling short by a whisker. Rain delays, weather being challenging, etc. "I feel exhausted. I feel physically and mentally drained. We had a lot of rain on Thursday and Friday. Even on Wednesday. Saturday also was rainy. I had like five layers of clothing on during Sunday. It was freezing cold. Add to that, I was playing 52 holes. It was a very demanding tournament and week. Thus, mental aspect came into play and I feel I did a good job of economising all my mental and physical resources. ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic expected to defend French Open title, says tournament director Amelie Mauresmo Sahith Theegala: Indian-origin rookie who is making heads turn Not only Anirban, the likes of Akshay Bhatia, Aditi Ashok and Sahith Theegala is also keeping the flag high in Indian golf. Talking about Sahith, he is an Indian-origin American golfer who has excelled in his amateur college career and is playing a rookie season on the PGA Tour. 24-year-old is currently ranked 164, had his best result in Phoenix Open (T3) before returning with a cut in the Players C'ship. He also interacted with WION to share excerpts about his journey and the road ahead: × Thus, it is safe to say that all these performances will give more belief and confidence to all Indian golfers to hone their skills, work hard on their game and not think that the PGA Tour is a bridge too far.

EXCLUSIVE | I did good in economising my mental & physical resources: Anirban Lahiri on Players C'ship's run

Anirban Lahiri has been the sole campaigner for India on the ultra-competitive PGA tour for close to a decade now. Lahiri came close to achieving his maiden tour title at the weather-affected Players Championship, leading the tournament midway before finishing second behind Australia's Cameron Smith. Lahiri looked back on his performance in a conversation with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo and credited his mental training for being able to stay in the hunt right till the very end.

Indian Golfer lands $2.18 million payday, hopes to inspire young golfers

PGA Tour card holder and Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri in an exclusive interview with WION's Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, spoke about variety of things ranging from resumption of practice, life in lockdown, PGA Tour restart, players' form, Ryder Cup and much more.

Digvijay Singh Deo: Anirban when I messaged you this morning you were set to tee off for a round, so how relieved are you to get back to playing again?

Anirban Lahiri: It's great to be back playing again. It was a huge relief when I got the clubs out. This lockdown period has been very tough for us athletes because our lives are centred around sport and it was suddenly taken away from us. So it was great to get back to what I love doing.

DSD: Was it an unfamiliar feeling when you hit that golf balls for the first time and did you hit it straight down the fairway?

Anirban Lahiri: It felt extremely strange, I don't think I have ever had so much time away from golf since I was in school. It almost felt like I was returning from my summer vacations in school because I didn't have any golf clubs back then. I was just happy to be back playing. Obviously it will take some time to return to my peak skill level.

DSD: Now usually such a long period without any action happens only when one is seriously injured, so how did you cope through this lockdown phase?

Anirban Lahiri: I don't believe the lockdown has been a terrible period for me as I got to spend some quality time with my 15-month old daughter. I also used this time to read and just get some much-needed rest. It has been a very hectic last five years for me on the PGA Tour, I have constantly been travelling. So it was great to be able to relax for a while, but that too got frustrating after about 30 days. I have been trying to stay fit by doing yoga, working out and eating healthy.

DSD: For you personally, a chance to introspect and plot a course to get back to your best form and also a way up the rankings. Also with the Olympics now a year away there is enough time to get back into the mix.

Anirban Lahiri: Before the scheduled Indian Open in March, my coach and I had drawn up a phase-wise plan to improve certain areas of my game that needed attention, which would help me get back to my best. My performances over the last two years have been extremely disappointing. We were in phase one of that plan when the lockdown began. Now that I have started playing a bit of golf again, I'm in touch with my coach. My participation in PGA Tour events depends on when international travel will resume. I would also like to spend 15 days with my coach in Ahmedabad, where he's based so that I can work on certain aspects of my game before I return to competitive golf. The Olympic postponement is actually a blessing for me because it gives me more time to secure qualification. This lockdown period has brought a lot of positives in my life and I will try to build on them.&nbsp;

<img alt="Anirban Lahiri" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bbe03d74-4306-40fb-9fa3-89db1d895ef9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Hkg10218701.jpg" />

DSD: You were in India when the PGA Tour abruptly shut down during the Players'&nbsp;Championships, at that time it was just a temporary break but perhaps no one had an idea of what they were dealing with.

Anirban Lahiri: The coronavirus crisis has affected all industries in the world, including sport. But hats off to the PGA Tour for being so proactive and putting a proper schedule out for the players. The PGA is one of the few major sporting organisations which has released a detailed plan to get the sport up and running. I have been involved in some form in the decision-making process and it has been a very difficult period for the PGA Tour. There are a lot of stakeholders in the game and their safety must be the priority. No one could have predicted the extent to which sport and life in general, would be affected by the crisis .it is good to see that there are signs of a return to some sort of normalcy, at least in golf. When the tour resumes, it will probably be a 'new normal' and it'll be interesting to see how the sport adapts. Hopefully, everything will go smoothly and the PGA Tour could also be a model for other sports to follow amid the coronavirus pandemic. I'm disappointed that I'm not going to be part of the tour right from the get-go, but I'm delighted that I'll get to see some live golf again.

DSD: Is it safe to resume the PGA Tour in the USA, given the massive health crisis the country is in.

Anirban Lahiri: I have been part of the players' advisory council for the last three years and i must say that the pga tour has left no stone unturned in trying to set up an environment where everyone involved in the tour can stay as safe as possible in the current climate. There are extremely strict health protocols in place at every step. Players and caddies will be tested for the coronavirus before travelling to the event, upon arrival and also just before the tournament begins. They are going to stay in designated hotels and no family members are allowed to travel with them. Only one coach can accompany the player to the events. Chartered flights have been organised for travel between events, which will only carry essential personnel. These protocols are going to be followed for the first four events after the hiatus. There have been hours of work and a lot of deliberation after which the PGA Tour has come up with these safety measures. I feel that this is the safest possible environment that can be created for players, given the current situation. Obviously it is impossible to guarantee 100% safety of all individuals, there are still chances of people contracting the virus. In fact, there are protocols in place in case an individual on the tour contracts the virus during the event. All contingencies have been covered by the PGA Tour. The players obviously want to get back to action and earn their living, but the last thing they want is to contract the virus and get it home. I think most of the players' concerns have been addressed by the tour and now it is just a case of executing the measures and hoping everything goes well. If I were in America and able to travel to the events, I would definitely play.

DSD: Now the PGA Tour is primarily an American Tour but obviously the biggest and most prestigious professional tour in the world. Now unlike tennis, they do not need everyone to be available before resuming. But it is players like you who are from abroad that will have a problem getting into the US, it's not really fair on the non-American players.

Anirban Lahiri: That's the reality of the situation, it is certainly unfair for certain players but these are unprecedented times and certain compromises have to made. Although to tackle that situation, the PGA Tour has guaranteed that those players who were eligible to play on the tour in 2020, will retain their rights for the 2021 season. The European tour is also having six events in the UK at the start of its season and most countries are going to have mandatory quarantine protocols in place even for athletes, in order to protect the greater population. I don't think any athletes will be exempted from those quarantine periods. The massive advantage that the PGA Tour has is that it can hold the entire season in the USA.

<img alt="Anirban Lahiri" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1940497c-7ab1-4444-be35-cfa2e4584503" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_HC7XX.jpg" />

It might not be fair on players living outside the US, but this is the best we can do at the moment. I can't participate in the first few events of the tour but I'm not complaining because I realise that the sport needs to resume in some form, it is about survival and getting through this tough phase. That is the primary concern. There are still some players who are uncomfortable playing in these circumstances, and it is their right to choose not to play. The ultimate choice to compete for lies with the player and no one has the right to judge that decision. It's a completely personal choice. Also, the other tours are looking at the PGA Tour to set the standard in terms of how to resume golf amid the pandemic. I know that the Asian Tour is definitely employing that strategy. In a sense, the PGA Tour is going to be the industry leader in setting a template for the sport to resume. There are always going to be different opinions, but personally I want to see the sport restart sooner rather than later.

DSD: At some point, you have to get back so then are you looking at a long stint in America till the end of the year because of these quarantine regulations.

Anirban Lahiri: I'm definitely going to have to be in the US for a while, whenever I go there. At some point, I will have to return to America because I live there. I love it here in India and this has almost been like a holiday to me because I'm not working. The problem I have right now is that I have no goal to work towards in a certain time frame, I don't know when flights will resume and when I'll be able to get back to playing competitive golf. As soon as I get a definite timeline, I will start mental and physical preparation for my return to action. Any athlete has to be in the right frame of mind to be able to prepare for an event, it is difficult to do so without a fixed deadline. I am patiently waiting for some decision to be made on international travel.

DSD: The action resume at the Charles Schwab Challenge and there's the stellar lineup on the cards. Does that just show the desperation of everyone to get back to playing again?

Anirban Lahiri: I spoke to some of the golfers who were part of the players' advisory council, including Rory McIlroy and Justin Thomas, and all of them just wanted to get back to the course again. It is how us golfers earn our living and not playing for 3-4 months is very hard on us as competitive athletes. It gets frustrating after a certain point of time and that's why we're seeing such a star-studded entry list at the first tournament after the break. We might see very strong fields heading into the other tournaments as well because so many events have been lost and players are desperate to pick up their ranking points in order to qualify for the fed-ex cup.

DSD: Most of the American golfers stay on golf courses and have been probably playing more regularly than say the likes of you. But there also has been a lack of competition. So are we going to see some strange names up the leaderboard?

Anirban Lahiri: Players will certainly be a bit rusty in the first few rounds, but I don't think it will last very long. Most of my friends in the US have continued to play golf because the lockdown measures there were nowhere near as strict as the restrictions in India. The situation in India would have been exponentially worse if such stringent measures would not have been adopted. I don't feel that we will see a lower standard of golf, we might get to see the depth in the PGA Tour with some of the lesser-known players coming to the fore and doing well, or it might be normal service for the likes of Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka. It is hard to say but I don't think the overall standard of golf will drop substantially. As far as I know, no golf course in the US was shut for more than two weeks. Despite the situation being so grave in America, golf courses were still open. A lot of the pros must have practised together which also might be a big help to them.

<img alt="Anirban Lahiri" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2a0ee7c3-0505-4c20-882c-ac715d69604c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9H4B3.jpg" />

DSD: Actually more than us it is professionals like you who would be able to pick up on minute details. Did you get a chance to watch some of the charity matches which featured the likes Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson, Rickie Fowler, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson?

Anirban Lahiri: I didn't watch any of the exhibition games. At the end of the day, they are just charity matches and they have got absolutely no correlation with what you'll see in competitive tournaments. Some of the golfers might hit great shots, but that isn't a reflection on how they will perform at the proper tour events, it's a completely different ball game.

DSD: Ryder Cup remains a huge talking point, you have played in team competitions before and you know how significant the atmosphere is, some like Ian Poulter thrive off it.so do you see it being held without fans or pushed back?

Anirban Lahiri: Team Europe would certainly prefer the Ryder Cup to be played without fans because it is happening in America. The golf course at Whistling Straits, Wisconsin, is one of my favourites and it is ideal for match-play. I would personally not want to be in a team competition without fans. Team events are the only ones which come closest to golf becoming a stadium sport. There are fans at regular events as well but there is a special atmosphere that is created by fans during team competitions.

PGA Tour card holder and Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri in an exclusive interview with WION's Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, spoke about variety of things ranging from resumption of practice, life in lockdown, PGA Tour restart, players' form, Ryder Cup and much more.

PGA Tour card holder and Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri in an exclusive interview with WION's Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, spoke about variety of things ranging from resumption of practice, life in lockdown, PGA Tour restart, players' form, Ryder Cup and much more. Digvijay Singh Deo: Anirban when I messaged you this morning you were set to tee off for a round, so how relieved are you to get back to playing again? Anirban Lahiri: It's great to be back playing again. It was a huge relief when I got the clubs out. This lockdown period has been very tough for us athletes because our lives are centred around sport and it was suddenly taken away from us. So it was great to get back to what I love doing. DSD: Was it an unfamiliar feeling when you hit that golf balls for the first time and did you hit it straight down the fairway? Anirban Lahiri: It felt extremely strange, I don't think I have ever had so much time away from golf since I was in school. It almost felt like I was returning from my summer vacations in school because I didn't have any golf clubs back then. I was just happy to be back playing. Obviously it will take some time to return to my peak skill level. DSD: Now usually such a long period without any action happens only when one is seriously injured, so how did you cope through this lockdown phase? Anirban Lahiri: I don't believe the lockdown has been a terrible period for me as I got to spend some quality time with my 15-month old daughter. I also used this time to read and just get some much-needed rest. It has been a very hectic last five years for me on the PGA Tour, I have constantly been travelling. So it was great to be able to relax for a while, but that too got frustrating after about 30 days. I have been trying to stay fit by doing yoga, working out and eating healthy. DSD: For you personally, a chance to introspect and plot a course to get back to your best form and also a way up the rankings. Also with the Olympics now a year away there is enough time to get back into the mix. Anirban Lahiri: Before the scheduled Indian Open in March, my coach and I had drawn up a phase-wise plan to improve certain areas of my game that needed attention, which would help me get back to my best. My performances over the last two years have been extremely disappointing. We were in phase one of that plan when the lockdown began. Now that I have started playing a bit of golf again, I'm in touch with my coach. My participation in PGA Tour events depends on when international travel will resume. I would also like to spend 15 days with my coach in Ahmedabad, where he's based so that I can work on certain aspects of my game before I return to competitive golf. The Olympic postponement is actually a blessing for me because it gives me more time to secure qualification. This lockdown period has brought a lot of positives in my life and I will try to build on them. DSD: You were in India when the PGA Tour abruptly shut down during the Players' Championships, at that time it was just a temporary break but perhaps no one had an idea of what they were dealing with. Anirban Lahiri: The coronavirus crisis has affected all industries in the world, including sport. But hats off to the PGA Tour for being so proactive and putting a proper schedule out for the players. The PGA is one of the few major sporting organisations which has released a detailed plan to get the sport up and running. I have been involved in some form in the decision-making process and it has been a very difficult period for the PGA Tour. There are a lot of stakeholders in the game and their safety must be the priority. No one could have predicted the extent to which sport and life in general, would be affected by the crisis .it is good to see that there are signs of a return to some sort of normalcy, at least in golf. When the tour resumes, it will probably be a 'new normal' and it'll be interesting to see how the sport adapts. Hopefully, everything will go smoothly and the PGA Tour could also be a model for other sports to follow amid the coronavirus pandemic. I'm disappointed that I'm not going to be part of the tour right from the get-go, but I'm delighted that I'll get to see some live golf again. DSD: Is it safe to resume the PGA Tour in the USA, given the massive health crisis the country is in. Anirban Lahiri: I have been part of the players' advisory council for the last three years and i must say that the pga tour has left no stone unturned in trying to set up an environment where everyone involved in the tour can stay as safe as possible in the current climate. There are extremely strict health protocols in place at every step. Players and caddies will be tested for the coronavirus before travelling to the event, upon arrival and also just before the tournament begins. They are going to stay in designated hotels and no family members are allowed to travel with them. Only one coach can accompany the player to the events. Chartered flights have been organised for travel between events, which will only carry essential personnel. These protocols are going to be followed for the first four events after the hiatus. There have been hours of work and a lot of deliberation after which the PGA Tour has come up with these safety measures. I feel that this is the safest possible environment that can be created for players, given the current situation. Obviously it is impossible to guarantee 100% safety of all individuals, there are still chances of people contracting the virus. In fact, there are protocols in place in case an individual on the tour contracts the virus during the event. All contingencies have been covered by the PGA Tour. The players obviously want to get back to action and earn their living, but the last thing they want is to contract the virus and get it home. I think most of the players' concerns have been addressed by the tour and now it is just a case of executing the measures and hoping everything goes well. If I were in America and able to travel to the events, I would definitely play. DSD: Now the PGA Tour is primarily an American Tour but obviously the biggest and most prestigious professional tour in the world. Now unlike tennis, they do not need everyone to be available before resuming. But it is players like you who are from abroad that will have a problem getting into the US, it's not really fair on the non-American players. Anirban Lahiri: That's the reality of the situation, it is certainly unfair for certain players but these are unprecedented times and certain compromises have to made. Although to tackle that situation, the PGA Tour has guaranteed that those players who were eligible to play on the tour in 2020, will retain their rights for the 2021 season. The European tour is also having six events in the UK at the start of its season and most countries are going to have mandatory quarantine protocols in place even for athletes, in order to protect the greater population. I don't think any athletes will be exempted from those quarantine periods. The massive advantage that the PGA Tour has is that it can hold the entire season in the USA. It might not be fair on players living outside the US, but this is the best we can do at the moment. I can't participate in the first few events of the tour but I'm not complaining because I realise that the sport needs to resume in some form, it is about survival and getting through this tough phase. That is the primary concern. There are still some players who are uncomfortable playing in these circumstances, and it is their right to choose not to play. The ultimate choice to compete for lies with the player and no one has the right to judge that decision. It's a completely personal choice. Also, the other tours are looking at the PGA Tour to set the standard in terms of how to resume golf amid the pandemic. I know that the Asian Tour is definitely employing that strategy. In a sense, the PGA Tour is going to be the industry leader in setting a template for the sport to resume. There are always going to be different opinions, but personally I want to see the sport restart sooner rather than later. DSD: At some point, you have to get back so then are you looking at a long stint in America till the end of the year because of these quarantine regulations. Anirban Lahiri: I'm definitely going to have to be in the US for a while, whenever I go there. At some point, I will have to return to America because I live there. I love it here in India and this has almost been like a holiday to me because I'm not working. The problem I have right now is that I have no goal to work towards in a certain time frame, I don't know when flights will resume and when I'll be able to get back to playing competitive golf. As soon as I get a definite timeline, I will start mental and physical preparation for my return to action. Any athlete has to be in the right frame of mind to be able to prepare for an event, it is difficult to do so without a fixed deadline. I am patiently waiting for some decision to be made on international travel. DSD: The action resume at the Charles Schwab Challenge and there's the stellar lineup on the cards. Does that just show the desperation of everyone to get back to playing again? Anirban Lahiri: I spoke to some of the golfers who were part of the players' advisory council, including Rory McIlroy and Justin Thomas, and all of them just wanted to get back to the course again. It is how us golfers earn our living and not playing for 3-4 months is very hard on us as competitive athletes. It gets frustrating after a certain point of time and that's why we're seeing such a star-studded entry list at the first tournament after the break. We might see very strong fields heading into the other tournaments as well because so many events have been lost and players are desperate to pick up their ranking points in order to qualify for the fed-ex cup. DSD: Most of the American golfers stay on golf courses and have been probably playing more regularly than say the likes of you. But there also has been a lack of competition. So are we going to see some strange names up the leaderboard? Anirban Lahiri: Players will certainly be a bit rusty in the first few rounds, but I don't think it will last very long. Most of my friends in the US have continued to play golf because the lockdown measures there were nowhere near as strict as the restrictions in India. The situation in India would have been exponentially worse if such stringent measures would not have been adopted. I don't feel that we will see a lower standard of golf, we might get to see the depth in the PGA Tour with some of the lesser-known players coming to the fore and doing well, or it might be normal service for the likes of Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka. It is hard to say but I don't think the overall standard of golf will drop substantially. As far as I know, no golf course in the US was shut for more than two weeks. Despite the situation being so grave in America, golf courses were still open. A lot of the pros must have practised together which also might be a big help to them. DSD: Actually more than us it is professionals like you who would be able to pick up on minute details. Did you get a chance to watch some of the charity matches which featured the likes Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson, Rickie Fowler, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson? Anirban Lahiri: I didn't watch any of the exhibition games. At the end of the day, they are just charity matches and they have got absolutely no correlation with what you'll see in competitive tournaments. Some of the golfers might hit great shots, but that isn't a reflection on how they will perform at the proper tour events, it's a completely different ball game. DSD: Ryder Cup remains a huge talking point, you have played in team competitions before and you know how significant the atmosphere is, some like Ian Poulter thrive off it.so do you see it being held without fans or pushed back? Anirban Lahiri: Team Europe would certainly prefer the Ryder Cup to be played without fans because it is happening in America. The golf course at Whistling Straits, Wisconsin, is one of my favourites and it is ideal for match-play. I would personally not want to be in a team competition without fans. Team events are the only ones which come closest to golf becoming a stadium sport. There are fans at regular events as well but there is a special atmosphere that is created by fans during team competitions.

Lahiri: PGA Tour restart will set the template for resumption of golf

International golf is gearing up for resumption with the PGA tour hosting its first tournament next week. The field at the Charles Schwab challenge features the top 5 in the world rankings and 17 of the top 20 players in the FedEx cup rankings. One man missing from the field is India's Anirban Lahiri who can’t get over to America due to the suspension of air travel and he spoke to sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo.

WION exclusive conversation with Indian Golfer Anirban Lahiri

Anirban Lahiri had a disastrous finish as he dropped four shots in closing three holes to end at 5-over 76 on the opening day of Wells Fargo golf tournament here.&nbsp

The ordinary meant he will need a very low second round to ensure he stays on for the weekend. Lahiri, now lying T-128, continued to miss short putts. On Thursday, he missed at least four putts inside six and a half feet and a few others between 10-15 feet.

Lahiri bogeyed the second and eighth hole and dropped another shot on 11th as he was 3-over through the first 12 holes. Birdies on 13th from 21 feet and 15th from 11 feet seemed to have salvaged the round.&nbsp

And then came the last three as he bogeyed 16th when he missed a five-footer par putt and then on and 17th he missed an 11-footer for par. On Par-4 18th, he had a tough shot from the bunker and went beyond. Then he missed a six-footer for bogey and ended with a double.

John Peterson, 29, made back-to-back eagles on Par-5 seventh and Par-4 eighth and added three more birdies on back nine for a splendid 6-under 65. He bogeyed the fifth. Peterson has declared that he will walk away from golf if he doesn't earn enough money to keep his card in three events.

Tiger Woods returned to Quail Hollow after a six-year absence and shot a modest 71, that pegged him at T-34th. Woods had back-to-back birdies on the holes where Peterson made his eagles, getting him to 1 under. But he hit a poor wedge that led to bogey on the par-5 10th. He had a birdie on the par-5 15th, only to give back that shot with a three-putt bogey from 15 feet on No. 16.

Peterson holed a bunker shot from just under 60 feet on the par-5 seventh and then holed a 56-degree wedge from 107 yards in the fairway for eagle on the next hole, the par-4 eighth.

Peterson has never led after any round in 89 starts on the PGA TOUR. He has declared that he wants to win the Wells Fargo Championship or the two tournaments he has left. Because of surgery on his left hand two years ago, Peterson started the year needing to make $375,165 in eight tournaments to keep his card.&nbsp

Five events later, he still needs $318,096. He has two starts remaining at the FedEx St. Jude Classic and Travelers Championship.

In case he does not make his card, Peterson is ready to get into real estate development with friends in Texas and give up pro golf.

Johnson Wagner, a member at Quail Hollow, also had back-to-back eagles when he drove the green on the par-4 14th to 6 feet, and then hit the green on the par-5 15th hole and made a 45-foot putt. He is in a group of five at 67 that included Tyrrell Hatton.

Rory McIlroy, a two-time winner at Wells Fargo, was among 10 players at 68. Paul Casey and Jason Day were among seven players at 69.

Anirban Lahiri had a disastrous finish as he dropped four shots in closing three holes to end at 5-over 76 on the opening day of Wells Fargo golf tournament

Anirban Lahiri had a disastrous finish as he dropped four shots in closing three holes to end at 5-over 76 on the opening day of Wells Fargo golf tournament here. The ordinary meant he will need a very low second round to ensure he stays on for the weekend. Lahiri, now lying T-128, continued to miss short putts. On Thursday, he missed at least four putts inside six and a half feet and a few others between 10-15 feet. Lahiri bogeyed the second and eighth hole and dropped another shot on 11th as he was 3-over through the first 12 holes. Birdies on 13th from 21 feet and 15th from 11 feet seemed to have salvaged the round. And then came the last three as he bogeyed 16th when he missed a five-footer par putt and then on and 17th he missed an 11-footer for par. On Par-4 18th, he had a tough shot from the bunker and went beyond. Then he missed a six-footer for bogey and ended with a double. John Peterson, 29, made back-to-back eagles on Par-5 seventh and Par-4 eighth and added three more birdies on back nine for a splendid 6-under 65. He bogeyed the fifth. Peterson has declared that he will walk away from golf if he doesn't earn enough money to keep his card in three events. Tiger Woods returned to Quail Hollow after a six-year absence and shot a modest 71, that pegged him at T-34th. Woods had back-to-back birdies on the holes where Peterson made his eagles, getting him to 1 under. But he hit a poor wedge that led to bogey on the par-5 10th. He had a birdie on the par-5 15th, only to give back that shot with a three-putt bogey from 15 feet on No. 16. Peterson holed a bunker shot from just under 60 feet on the par-5 seventh and then holed a 56-degree wedge from 107 yards in the fairway for eagle on the next hole, the par-4 eighth. Peterson has never led after any round in 89 starts on the PGA TOUR. He has declared that he wants to win the Wells Fargo Championship or the two tournaments he has left. Because of surgery on his left hand two years ago, Peterson started the year needing to make $375,165 in eight tournaments to keep his card. Five events later, he still needs $318,096. He has two starts remaining at the FedEx St. Jude Classic and Travelers Championship. In case he does not make his card, Peterson is ready to get into real estate development with friends in Texas and give up pro golf. Johnson Wagner, a member at Quail Hollow, also had back-to-back eagles when he drove the green on the par-4 14th to 6 feet, and then hit the green on the par-5 15th hole and made a 45-foot putt. He is in a group of five at 67 that included Tyrrell Hatton. Rory McIlroy, a two-time winner at Wells Fargo, was among 10 players at 68. Paul Casey and Jason Day were among seven players at 69.

Anirban Lahiri disappoints; modest start for Tiger Woods

India&#39;s Anirban Lahiri has targeted a top 10 finish at next week&#39;s British Open at Royal Troon as the reigning Asian Tour number one gears up for a bumper month of golf that ends with the Rio Olympics in August. 
 
Lahiri, who turned 29 last week, finished tied for 31st in his British Open debut in 2012 and will make his fourth appearance at the championship at the Scottish links from July 14-17. 
 
&quot;The Open is truly a special tournament,&quot; Lahiri told the Asian Tour. &quot;I&#39;ve had a couple of decent outings but feel like I missed out both times on a top-10 finish. 
 
&quot;Hopefully Troon suits my eye and I can play consistently throughout the week. A top-10 or better would be my goal this year. 
 
&quot;I like playing links courses,&quot; Lahiri added. &quot;You have to be creative and strategically efficient to play well on them. Also I am comfortable flighting down my ball-flight, which is a must in windy conditions. 
 
Lahiri, whose tied fifth finish at the PGA Championship last year is the best by an Indian golfer, feels consistency has been lacking from his game in his first full season on the PGA Tour. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s been a very slow and sluggish season. I have been inconsistent and have got off to good starts on a few occasions only to have a disappointing weekend. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s frustrating when your &#39;A&#39; game feels right around the corner but does not show up as frequently as you would like. 
 
&quot;In any case the first season on a new tour is always the toughest and I&#39;m satisfied that I am in a good position to keep my playing privileges for next year.&quot; 
 
While a number of top-ranked male golfers have withdrawn from the Rio Games due to Zika fears, Lahiri, ranked 62nd in the world, is excited at the prospect of representing India at the Aug. 5-21 Games, which will see the sport return to the Olympics after a 112-year gap. 
 
&quot;Managing energy levels and conditioning are a big challenge this season,&quot; Lahiri added. &quot;I will look to skip a few events leading up to the big ones if I feel like I need to take a break. 
 
&quot;My coach will be here in America for two weeks to work on all aspects of the game and sharpen it up for the majors and the Olympics. 
 
&quot;Hopefully I can pace myself just right to peak during the majors and Olympics. That&#39;s the goal.&rdquo; 
 
(Reuters)

Lahiri finished tied for 31st in his British Open debut in 2012 and will make his fourth appearance at the championship

India's Anirban Lahiri has targeted a top 10 finish at next week's British Open at Royal Troon as the reigning Asian Tour number one gears up for a bumper month of golf that ends with the Rio Olympics in August. Lahiri, who turned 29 last week, finished tied for 31st in his British Open debut in 2012 and will make his fourth appearance at the championship at the Scottish links from July 14-17. "The Open is truly a special tournament," Lahiri told the Asian Tour. "I've had a couple of decent outings but feel like I missed out both times on a top-10 finish. "Hopefully Troon suits my eye and I can play consistently throughout the week. A top-10 or better would be my goal this year. "I like playing links courses," Lahiri added. "You have to be creative and strategically efficient to play well on them. Also I am comfortable flighting down my ball-flight, which is a must in windy conditions. Lahiri, whose tied fifth finish at the PGA Championship last year is the best by an Indian golfer, feels consistency has been lacking from his game in his first full season on the PGA Tour. "It's been a very slow and sluggish season. I have been inconsistent and have got off to good starts on a few occasions only to have a disappointing weekend. "It's frustrating when your 'A' game feels right around the corner but does not show up as frequently as you would like. "In any case the first season on a new tour is always the toughest and I'm satisfied that I am in a good position to keep my playing privileges for next year." While a number of top-ranked male golfers have withdrawn from the Rio Games due to Zika fears, Lahiri, ranked 62nd in the world, is excited at the prospect of representing India at the Aug. 5-21 Games, which will see the sport return to the Olympics after a 112-year gap. "Managing energy levels and conditioning are a big challenge this season," Lahiri added. "I will look to skip a few events leading up to the big ones if I feel like I need to take a break. "My coach will be here in America for two weeks to work on all aspects of the game and sharpen it up for the majors and the Olympics. "Hopefully I can pace myself just right to peak during the majors and Olympics. That's the goal.” (Reuters)

India's Anirban Lahiri targets British Open top 10

India&#39;s Anirban Lahiri has targeted a top 10 finish at next week&#39;s British Open at Royal Troon as the reigning Asian Tour number one gears up for a bumper month of golf that ends with the Rio Olympics in August. 
 
Lahiri, who turned 29 last week, finished tied for 31st in his British Open debut in 2012 and will make his fourth appearance at the championships at the Scottish links from July 14-17. 
 
&quot;The Open is truly a special tournament,&quot; Lahiri told the Asian Tour. &quot;I&#39;ve had a couple of decent outings but feel like I missed out both times on a top 10 finish. 
 
&quot;Hopefully Troon suits my eye and I can play consistently throughout the week. A top 10 or better would be my goal this year. 
 
&quot;I like playing links courses,&quot; Lahiri added. &quot;You have to be creative and strategically efficient to play well on them. Also I am comfortable flighting down my ball-flight, which is a must in windy conditions. 
 
Lahiri, whose tied fifth finish at the PGA Championship last year, is the best by an Indian golfer, feels consistency has been lacking from his game in his first full season on the PGA Tour. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s been a very slow and sluggish season. I have been inconsistent and have got off to good starts on a few occasions only to have a disappointing weekend. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s frustrating when your &#39;A&#39; game feels right around the corner but does not show up as frequently as you would like. 
 
&quot;In any case the first season on a new tour is always the toughest and I&#39;m satisfied that I am in a good position to keep my playing privileges for next year.&quot; 
 
While a number of top-ranked male golfers have withdrawn from the Rio Games due to Zika fears, Lahiri, ranked 62nd in the world, is excited at the prospect of representing India at the August 5-21 Games, which will see the sport return to the Olympics after a 112-year gap. 
 
&quot;Managing energy levels and conditioning are a big challenge this season,&quot; Lahiri added. &quot;I will look to skip a few events leading up to the big ones if I feel like I need to take a break. 
 
&quot;My coach will be here in America for two weeks to work on all aspects of the game and sharpen it up for the majors and the Olympics. 
 
&quot;Hopefully I can pace myself just right to peak during the majors and Olympics. That&#39;s the goal.&rdquo; 
 
(Reuters)

This will be the Asian Tour number one's fourth appearance at the tournament

India's Anirban Lahiri has targeted a top 10 finish at next week's British Open at Royal Troon as the reigning Asian Tour number one gears up for a bumper month of golf that ends with the Rio Olympics in August. Lahiri, who turned 29 last week, finished tied for 31st in his British Open debut in 2012 and will make his fourth appearance at the championships at the Scottish links from July 14-17. "The Open is truly a special tournament," Lahiri told the Asian Tour. "I've had a couple of decent outings but feel like I missed out both times on a top 10 finish. "Hopefully Troon suits my eye and I can play consistently throughout the week. A top 10 or better would be my goal this year. "I like playing links courses," Lahiri added. "You have to be creative and strategically efficient to play well on them. Also I am comfortable flighting down my ball-flight, which is a must in windy conditions. Lahiri, whose tied fifth finish at the PGA Championship last year, is the best by an Indian golfer, feels consistency has been lacking from his game in his first full season on the PGA Tour. "It's been a very slow and sluggish season. I have been inconsistent and have got off to good starts on a few occasions only to have a disappointing weekend. "It's frustrating when your 'A' game feels right around the corner but does not show up as frequently as you would like. "In any case the first season on a new tour is always the toughest and I'm satisfied that I am in a good position to keep my playing privileges for next year." While a number of top-ranked male golfers have withdrawn from the Rio Games due to Zika fears, Lahiri, ranked 62nd in the world, is excited at the prospect of representing India at the August 5-21 Games, which will see the sport return to the Olympics after a 112-year gap. "Managing energy levels and conditioning are a big challenge this season," Lahiri added. "I will look to skip a few events leading up to the big ones if I feel like I need to take a break. "My coach will be here in America for two weeks to work on all aspects of the game and sharpen it up for the majors and the Olympics. "Hopefully I can pace myself just right to peak during the majors and Olympics. That's the goal.” (Reuters)

India's Anirban Lahiri targets top 10 finish at British Open

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