Twice major winner Dustin Johnson won $18 million after clinching the individual title in the&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Series with a 16th-place finish at the latest event in Bangkok, Thailand, the Saudi-backed circuit said on Monday. The American, 38, shot a five-under-par 67 on Sunday to finish on nine-under-par, leaving him with an insurmountable 42-point lead over Branden Grace of South Africa. Johnson finished in the top five in four of the previous five events, taking home $4 million for his only win of the series in Boston in September.

"Locking up the individual competition is big. It's an honour to be&nbsp;LIV's first individual season champion," Johnson said. Patrick Reed, the 2018 Masters winner, sits in third in the overall standings while British Open champion Cameron Smith is in fourth spot. The runner-up will be awarded $8 million while the third-placed player earns $4 million. The individual competition concludes in Jeddah from Oct. 14-16 before a final team championship at former U.S. president Donald Trump's Doral course in Miami.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-koreas-tom-kim-equals-tiger-woods-feat-with-shriners-childrens-open-win-523900">South Korea's Tom Kim equals Tiger Woods' feat with Shriners Children's Open win</a>

"The first chapter of&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf's history could not be written without Dustin Johnson's name,"&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;chief executive Greg Norman said. "By any measure, DJ is among the elite players in the world. From the start he's been an&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf cornerstone. He has more than&nbsp;lived up to his billing and deserves immense credit." LIV&nbsp;Golf has lured away some of the U.S.-based PGA Tour's top members with huge sums of money, leading to a simmering feud between the sport's top players and organisers.

LIV&nbsp;tournaments do not count towards the world rankings, and players who compete in the breakaway series have been suspended from the PGA Tour. The series is s bankrolled by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund and critics have accused it of being a vehicle for the country to attempt to improve its reputation in the face of criticism of its human rights record.

Twice major winner Dustin Johnson won $18 million after clinching the individual title in the LIV Series with a 16th-place finish at the latest event in Bangkok, Thailand, the Saudi-backed circuit said on Monday.

Twice major winner Dustin Johnson won $18 million after clinching the individual title in the LIV Series with a 16th-place finish at the latest event in Bangkok, Thailand, the Saudi-backed circuit said on Monday. The American, 38, shot a five-under-par 67 on Sunday to finish on nine-under-par, leaving him with an insurmountable 42-point lead over Branden Grace of South Africa. Johnson finished in the top five in four of the previous five events, taking home $4 million for his only win of the series in Boston in September. "Locking up the individual competition is big. It's an honour to be LIV's first individual season champion," Johnson said. Patrick Reed, the 2018 Masters winner, sits in third in the overall standings while British Open champion Cameron Smith is in fourth spot. The runner-up will be awarded $8 million while the third-placed player earns $4 million. The individual competition concludes in Jeddah from Oct. 14-16 before a final team championship at former U.S. president Donald Trump's Doral course in Miami. ALSO READ | South Korea's Tom Kim equals Tiger Woods' feat with Shriners Children's Open win "The first chapter of LIV Golf's history could not be written without Dustin Johnson's name," LIV chief executive Greg Norman said. "By any measure, DJ is among the elite players in the world. From the start he's been an LIV Golf cornerstone. He has more than lived up to his billing and deserves immense credit." LIV Golf has lured away some of the U.S.-based PGA Tour's top members with huge sums of money, leading to a simmering feud between the sport's top players and organisers. LIV tournaments do not count towards the world rankings, and players who compete in the breakaway series have been suspended from the PGA Tour. The series is s bankrolled by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund and critics have accused it of being a vehicle for the country to attempt to improve its reputation in the face of criticism of its human rights record.

Twice major winner Dustin Johnson pockets $18 million as inaugural LIV Series champion

South Korea's Tom Kim took advantage of a late error by Patrick Cantlay to win the Shriners Children's Open on Sunday and become the first player since Tiger Woods in 1996 to claim two PGA Tour victories before turning 21. The 20-year-old came into the final round tied for the lead with world number four Cantlay and secured the victory after his American opponent triple-bogeyed the final hole.

Kim finished with a five-under 66 to go 24-under overall in a bogey-free week at TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas. "I got very lucky on the 18th, I'm not going to lie," Kim told the Golf Channel broadcast. "Patrick played awesome and it was an honour to battle with him and to come out on top, I feel very fortunate. "I've got to give big credit to Joe (Skovron), my caddie. He really kept me in it and we had a really good gameplan coming into the week, and it paid off."

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>

Victory was Kim's second PGA Tour title in his last four starts, following his triumph in the Wyndham Championship in August. "It's really amazing," Kim said. "A few months ago, I didn't have any status in the U.S. and now being a two-time winner on Tour, having that place with Tiger, it's an unbelievable feeling for me. It's an honour and definitely a dream come true.

"I've worked really hard, and my team has worked really hard to this point, and I'm just really grateful... I'm having fun playing on the PGA Tour. I'm a five-year-old at Disneyland."

South Korea's Tom Kim took advantage of a late error by Patrick Cantlay to win the Shriners Children's Open on Sunday and become the first player since Tiger Woods in 1996 to claim two PGA Tour victories before turning 21.

South Korea's Tom Kim took advantage of a late error by Patrick Cantlay to win the Shriners Children's Open on Sunday and become the first player since Tiger Woods in 1996 to claim two PGA Tour victories before turning 21. The 20-year-old came into the final round tied for the lead with world number four Cantlay and secured the victory after his American opponent triple-bogeyed the final hole. Kim finished with a five-under 66 to go 24-under overall in a bogey-free week at TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas. "I got very lucky on the 18th, I'm not going to lie," Kim told the Golf Channel broadcast. "Patrick played awesome and it was an honour to battle with him and to come out on top, I feel very fortunate. "I've got to give big credit to Joe (Skovron), my caddie. He really kept me in it and we had a really good gameplan coming into the week, and it paid off." ALSO READ | Exclusive | Asia is sleeping giant to help game reach non-traditional destinations: LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman Victory was Kim's second PGA Tour title in his last four starts, following his triumph in the Wyndham Championship in August. "It's really amazing," Kim said. "A few months ago, I didn't have any status in the U.S. and now being a two-time winner on Tour, having that place with Tiger, it's an unbelievable feeling for me. It's an honour and definitely a dream come true. "I've worked really hard, and my team has worked really hard to this point, and I'm just really grateful... I'm having fun playing on the PGA Tour. I'm a five-year-old at Disneyland."

South Korea's Tom Kim equals Tiger Woods' feat with Shriners Children's Open win

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'

Failure to award world-ranking points at the Saudi-backed LIV Golf event in Thailand starting on Friday renders the rankings "inaccurate", the MENA Tour said on Friday. The Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) organisation said on Thursday that players will not receive ranking points in Bangkok or at another LIV tournament in Jeddah next week.

It came after the rebel LIV series teamed up with the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) Tour in a strategic alliance between the circuits so that LIV players could earn ranking points. OWGR subsequently rejected that, saying it had been given insufficient notice and needed to do a review, the latest chapter in a bitter civil war which has torn golf apart and sparked accusations of Saudi "sportswashing".

The top 50 players in the rankings qualify automatically for all four major tournaments. LIV Golf is not currently recognised by OWGR, meaning LIV players tumble down the rankings. The MENA Tour, which had been inactive since the start of the pandemic in 2020 but relaunched with LIV in Bangkok this week, hit back at the OWGR's decision.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-liv-golf-as-players-denied-ranking-points-523073">Big blow to LIV Golf as players denied ranking points</a>

"Not including our event in this week's OWGR render the results and subsequent player movements inaccurate," David Spencer, commissioner of the MENA Tour, said in a statement. Spencer added that "we will continue to work tirelessly to resolve this situation with the OWGR". LIV, which offers record $25 million purses, has already staged five events in its inaugural year. But no ranking points have been awarded to its players, including British Open champion Cameron Smith, former world number one Dustin Johnson and six-time major winner Phil Mickelson.

Golfers on the rebel circuit have been banned from the PGA Tour, ruling out American players from qualifying for the 2023 Ryder Cup. European stars to have left for LIV, including stalwarts Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter and Sergio Garcia, have all plummeted down the world rankings and seem unlikely to make Luke Donald's team for the two-yearly contest, which takes place near Rome.

Failure to award world-ranking points at the Saudi-backed LIV Golf event in Thailand starting on Friday renders the rankings "inaccurate", the MENA Tour said on Friday.

Failure to award world-ranking points at the Saudi-backed LIV Golf event in Thailand starting on Friday renders the rankings "inaccurate", the MENA Tour said on Friday. The Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) organisation said on Thursday that players will not receive ranking points in Bangkok or at another LIV tournament in Jeddah next week. It came after the rebel LIV series teamed up with the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) Tour in a strategic alliance between the circuits so that LIV players could earn ranking points. OWGR subsequently rejected that, saying it had been given insufficient notice and needed to do a review, the latest chapter in a bitter civil war which has torn golf apart and sparked accusations of Saudi "sportswashing". The top 50 players in the rankings qualify automatically for all four major tournaments. LIV Golf is not currently recognised by OWGR, meaning LIV players tumble down the rankings. The MENA Tour, which had been inactive since the start of the pandemic in 2020 but relaunched with LIV in Bangkok this week, hit back at the OWGR's decision. ALSO READ | Big blow to LIV Golf as players denied ranking points "Not including our event in this week's OWGR render the results and subsequent player movements inaccurate," David Spencer, commissioner of the MENA Tour, said in a statement. Spencer added that "we will continue to work tirelessly to resolve this situation with the OWGR". LIV, which offers record $25 million purses, has already staged five events in its inaugural year. But no ranking points have been awarded to its players, including British Open champion Cameron Smith, former world number one Dustin Johnson and six-time major winner Phil Mickelson. Golfers on the rebel circuit have been banned from the PGA Tour, ruling out American players from qualifying for the 2023 Ryder Cup. European stars to have left for LIV, including stalwarts Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter and Sergio Garcia, have all plummeted down the world rankings and seem unlikely to make Luke Donald's team for the two-yearly contest, which takes place near Rome.

Golf rankings 'inaccurate' without LIV events, says MENA Tour

Former World No. 1 and Liv Golf CEO Greg Norman has launched an all-out attack on the PGA tour for blocking the awarding of ranking points to his players. A combative Norman spoke to Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo on the sidelines of the Bangkok invitational and opened up on the circuit's future plans of following an 'IPL-Type' franchise model from 2023.

Exclusive: LIV CEO Greg Norman on the battle for golf

The LIV Golf versus PGA Tour battle continues to make heads turn with each passing day. Ever since LIV Golf came to light, it has generated eyeballs all across the golf fraternity. One can like or dislike the concept of LIV Golf, but one certainly cannot ignore it by any means. For a startup, LIV Golf has already made a global impact.

It is to be noted that the PGA Tour had recently countersued Greg Norman's LIV, alleging that the rival golf circuit is using unfair practices by attracting players by virtue of offering whopping deals. Moreover, on Thursday (October 6), it was revealed that the LIV Golf players will not receive world ranking points for this week's event in Bangkok or the tournament in Jeddah later this month, revealed by the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) organisation.

Despite all this, LIV Golf Tour remains undeterred. On the sidelines of the&nbsp;sixth event of its inaugural season, WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo caught up with LIV Golf CEO Norman. The 67-year-old has had a lot to deal with ever since LIV Golf gained precedence all across the globe and spoke&nbsp;at length on various topics.

'Kerry Packer changed the way cricket was played and IPL came out of it'

Backing LIV Golf, the retired professional golfer Norman said, "The product is speaking for itself. the business model is being received well. We have improved every week. From our innovation or evolution, we have improved. We can never be a platform that sits in a box. We want to change it up. We want to adapt to the culture of where we are today. The players are loving it. It was never there earlier."

Anirban Lahiri recently called LIV Golf the T20 of golf. There was a similar sort of pushback when the 50-over format was gradually replaced by T20 cricket. Is the problem with the detractors of this circuit that they have got their blinkers on and are not ready to embrace change? In this regard, Norman --&nbsp;who spent as many as 331 weeks as the No. 1 ranked player&nbsp;in the 1980s and 1990s -- opined,&nbsp;"For 53 years they have been doing the same thing. it is boring it is staid. Kerry Packer changed the way cricket was played and IPL came out of it. With that, the franchise model has grown in IPL. Test cricket never died. LIV Golf is a different platform and model. Majors will not die. Everyone plays in the majors. It is just that certain people are monopolists and don't want change."

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-game-of-golf-is-for-everybody-it-is-global-sergio-garcia-on-liv-golf-vs-pga-tour-battle-523002">EXCLUSIVE! 'Game of golf is for everybody, it is global': Sergio Garcia on LIV Golf vs PGA Tour battle</a>

On being asked what personal cost he&nbsp;had to bear for relentlessly backing LIV Golf, Norman said, "I&nbsp;have lost shallow-minded friends who have judged my game to take the game of golf and grow it. My heat shield is strong and protective. I knew I was going to face stick. I understood the model and not one person in this world I have spoken to me told me it is a stupid idea." The winner of 89 professional tournaments further added, "It is just that the monopolists are trying to destroy us. We have never tried to destroy anyone. Our players should play other tours. Why can't other tours allow us to play here?"

Norman, who is regarded as one of the all-time greats in golf, is certainly not backing down in his fight to keep LIV Golf on top. He hasn't minced his words and remains crystal clear of his vision with the Saudi-backed circuit.

The LIV Golf versus PGA Tour battle continues to make heads turn with each passing day. Ever since LIV Golf came to light, it has generated eyeballs all across the golf fraternity.

The LIV Golf versus PGA Tour battle continues to make heads turn with each passing day. Ever since LIV Golf came to light, it has generated eyeballs all across the golf fraternity. One can like or dislike the concept of LIV Golf, but one certainly cannot ignore it by any means. For a startup, LIV Golf has already made a global impact. It is to be noted that the PGA Tour had recently countersued Greg Norman's LIV, alleging that the rival golf circuit is using unfair practices by attracting players by virtue of offering whopping deals. Moreover, on Thursday (October 6), it was revealed that the LIV Golf players will not receive world ranking points for this week's event in Bangkok or the tournament in Jeddah later this month, revealed by the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) organisation. Despite all this, LIV Golf Tour remains undeterred. On the sidelines of the sixth event of its inaugural season, WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo caught up with LIV Golf CEO Norman. The 67-year-old has had a lot to deal with ever since LIV Golf gained precedence all across the globe and spoke at length on various topics. 'Kerry Packer changed the way cricket was played and IPL came out of it' Backing LIV Golf, the retired professional golfer Norman said, "The product is speaking for itself. the business model is being received well. We have improved every week. From our innovation or evolution, we have improved. We can never be a platform that sits in a box. We want to change it up. We want to adapt to the culture of where we are today. The players are loving it. It was never there earlier." Anirban Lahiri recently called LIV Golf the T20 of golf. There was a similar sort of pushback when the 50-over format was gradually replaced by T20 cricket. Is the problem with the detractors of this circuit that they have got their blinkers on and are not ready to embrace change? In this regard, Norman -- who spent as many as 331 weeks as the No. 1 ranked player in the 1980s and 1990s -- opined, "For 53 years they have been doing the same thing. it is boring it is staid. Kerry Packer changed the way cricket was played and IPL came out of it. With that, the franchise model has grown in IPL. Test cricket never died. LIV Golf is a different platform and model. Majors will not die. Everyone plays in the majors. It is just that certain people are monopolists and don't want change." × ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE! 'Game of golf is for everybody, it is global': Sergio Garcia on LIV Golf vs PGA Tour battle On being asked what personal cost he had to bear for relentlessly backing LIV Golf, Norman said, "I have lost shallow-minded friends who have judged my game to take the game of golf and grow it. My heat shield is strong and protective. I knew I was going to face stick. I understood the model and not one person in this world I have spoken to me told me it is a stupid idea." The winner of 89 professional tournaments further added, "It is just that the monopolists are trying to destroy us. We have never tried to destroy anyone. Our players should play other tours. Why can't other tours allow us to play here?" Norman, who is regarded as one of the all-time greats in golf, is certainly not backing down in his fight to keep LIV Golf on top. He hasn't minced his words and remains crystal clear of his vision with the Saudi-backed circuit.

Exclusive: Kerry Packer revolutionised cricket and IPL came out of it, says Greg Norman on LIV Golf model

"I have lost shallow minded friends who have judged my game to take the game of golf and grow it. My heat shield is strong and protective. I knew I was going to face stick. I understood the model and not one person in this world I have spoken to me told me it is a stupid idea. The monopolists are trying to destroy us. We have never tried to destroy anyone. Our players should play other tours. Why cant other tours allow us to play here," said Greg Norman.

LIV Golf CEO opens up on battle for Golf, slams 'degrading' ranking system

A lot has transpired in golf in recent times. Since the inception of LIV Golf, it has left the golf world divided with the PGA Tour currently being involved in a court tussle with the rival tour. The PGA Tour had recently countersued Greg Norman's LIV, alleging that the rival golf circuit is using unfair practices by attracting players courtesy of whopping deals.

On the other hand, LIV Golf remains unperturbed by distractions or outside noises. Ahead of the&nbsp;2022 LIV Golf event in Bangkok, Thailand (i.e. the sixth event of its inaugural season), WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo caught up with Spain's Sergio Garcia. The 42-year-old, who has won 36 international tournaments as a professional and&nbsp;is arguably Europe's greatest Ryder Cup player, spoke at length&nbsp;on the divide in the sport due to LIV Golf vs PGA Tour, on joining the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit&nbsp;and chances of playing in the Ryder Cup.

"We are super excited (about joining the LIV Golf series) about where we are headed. Yes (we are pioneers). LIV Golf has given us an opportunity to be that. We are really confident that this is the right decision. On being asked if there&nbsp;was there something in the game that wasn't right, leading to LIV Golf Series,&nbsp;Garcia said, "Not really. I think some things could've been done differently with more energy and focus on younger generations. If you look at the age average for LIV, compared to the European or PGA Tour, it is much younger. At the end of the day, we try to encourage and get those young people to follow the game. LIV Golf is doing that. We are happy to do it."

When asked if he is surprised by PGA's 'this is my turf, nobody can be on it' policy, the veteran Sergio said, "Well, the game of golf is global. It belongs to everybody. They tried to do something for their benefit, but we will also try to do whatever best is possible." On the overall reaction and flak coming towards LIV Series, the Spaniard opined, "We knew something of this was going to happen. But that's ok. We are all grown up. We all know what is best for the game and best for our families. Apart from that, it is all white noise."

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Coming up today on <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a> a chat with 2017 <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMasters?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheMasters</a> Champion <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSergioGarcia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheSergioGarcia</a> . I broke the ice by chatting about <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadriden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realmadriden</a> before we rolled. That worked out well. <a href="https://twitter.com/LIVGolfInv?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LIVGolfInv</a> <a href="https://t.co/A9YmSxuRza">pic.twitter.com/A9YmSxuRza</a>
— Digvijay Singh Deo (@DiggySinghDeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo/status/1577904694072315905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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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>

LIV's strategic alliance with META

On Thursday (October 06), a big announcement came in. LIV&nbsp;Golf players will now earn world ranking points starting this week after the developmental MENA (the Middle East and North Africa) Tour forged&nbsp;a strategic alliance with the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit.&nbsp;

"We are taking this mutually beneficial action to support the game at the developmental level and because of the importance and fairness of&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;golfers qualifying for OWGR points,"&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf President Atul Khosla said in a MENA Tour news release. "We're pleased to create pathways that give more opportunities for young players, while also giving fans rankings that include all the world’s best golfers."

Regarding this development, Sergio stated, "It is big. Super exciting. For younger players who don't have majors and want to hold onto their rankings and get rewarded for their good play, so that they can have eligibility to play the majors, thus, we are super excited about that."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liv-golfers-set-to-earn-ranking-points-after-strategic-alliance-with-mena-tour-522936">LIV golfers set to earn ranking points after strategic alliance with MENA Tour</a>

Will Sergio Garcia feature in the Ryder Cup?

With Sergio joining LIV Golf, this&nbsp;could well lead to the end of his career competing in blue and gold. He signed off by saying, "I would love to (play). Unfortunately, that won't come down to me. It depends on the European tour, the captain and the people involved there. We will see what happens." It is to be noted that the superstar golfer has been&nbsp;given until Friday (October 07) to make a decision.

A lot has transpired in golf in recent times. Since the inception of LIV Golf, it has left the golf world divided with the PGA Tour currently being involved in a court tussle with the rival tour.

A lot has transpired in golf in recent times. Since the inception of LIV Golf, it has left the golf world divided with the PGA Tour currently being involved in a court tussle with the rival tour. The PGA Tour had recently countersued Greg Norman's LIV, alleging that the rival golf circuit is using unfair practices by attracting players courtesy of whopping deals. On the other hand, LIV Golf remains unperturbed by distractions or outside noises. Ahead of the 2022 LIV Golf event in Bangkok, Thailand (i.e. the sixth event of its inaugural season), WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo caught up with Spain's Sergio Garcia. The 42-year-old, who has won 36 international tournaments as a professional and is arguably Europe's greatest Ryder Cup player, spoke at length on the divide in the sport due to LIV Golf vs PGA Tour, on joining the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit and chances of playing in the Ryder Cup. "We are super excited (about joining the LIV Golf series) about where we are headed. Yes (we are pioneers). LIV Golf has given us an opportunity to be that. We are really confident that this is the right decision. On being asked if there was there something in the game that wasn't right, leading to LIV Golf Series, Garcia said, "Not really. I think some things could've been done differently with more energy and focus on younger generations. If you look at the age average for LIV, compared to the European or PGA Tour, it is much younger. At the end of the day, we try to encourage and get those young people to follow the game. LIV Golf is doing that. We are happy to do it." When asked if he is surprised by PGA's 'this is my turf, nobody can be on it' policy, the veteran Sergio said, "Well, the game of golf is global. It belongs to everybody. They tried to do something for their benefit, but we will also try to do whatever best is possible." On the overall reaction and flak coming towards LIV Series, the Spaniard opined, "We knew something of this was going to happen. But that's ok. We are all grown up. We all know what is best for the game and best for our families. Apart from that, it is all white noise." Coming up today on @WIONews a chat with 2017 @TheMasters Champion @TheSergioGarcia . I broke the ice by chatting about @realmadriden before we rolled. That worked out well. @LIVGolfInv pic.twitter.com/A9YmSxuRza — Digvijay Singh Deo (@DiggySinghDeo) October 6, 2022 × ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE! We saw the vision: Ian Poulter explains his decision to join LIV Golf, stirs world ranking debate LIV's strategic alliance with META On Thursday (October 06), a big announcement came in. LIV Golf players will now earn world ranking points starting this week after the developmental MENA (the Middle East and North Africa) Tour forged a strategic alliance with the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit. "We are taking this mutually beneficial action to support the game at the developmental level and because of the importance and fairness of LIV golfers qualifying for OWGR points," LIV Golf President Atul Khosla said in a MENA Tour news release. "We're pleased to create pathways that give more opportunities for young players, while also giving fans rankings that include all the world’s best golfers." Regarding this development, Sergio stated, "It is big. Super exciting. For younger players who don't have majors and want to hold onto their rankings and get rewarded for their good play, so that they can have eligibility to play the majors, thus, we are super excited about that." ALSO READ | LIV golfers set to earn ranking points after strategic alliance with MENA Tour Will Sergio Garcia feature in the Ryder Cup? With Sergio joining LIV Golf, this could well lead to the end of his career competing in blue and gold. He signed off by saying, "I would love to (play). Unfortunately, that won't come down to me. It depends on the European tour, the captain and the people involved there. We will see what happens." It is to be noted that the superstar golfer has been given until Friday (October 07) to make a decision.

EXCLUSIVE! 'Game of golf is for everybody, it is global': Sergio Garcia on LIV Golf vs PGA Tour battle

LIV Golf players will not receive world ranking points for this week's event in Bangkok or the tournament in Jeddah later this month, the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) organisation said on Thursday. The Saudi-backed LIV Series has yet to be given ranking points but the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) Tour announced on Wednesday that players at the next two events would be awarded points after a strategic alliance between the circuits.

The top 50 players in the rankings qualify automatically for all four major tournaments. OWGR said it had been given insufficient notice and that a decision on whether to award ranking points would only be made following a review. The organisation said it received a communication from the MENA Tour at 1205 GMT on October 5, detailing "significant changes" to its membership structure along with an outline of the initial series of tournaments in the 2022/23 season. "OWGR notes that the first two tournaments in this series appeared to be the same as the LIV Golf Invitational Series tournaments in Bangkok and Jeddah," it said in a statement. "The communication from the MENA Tour included a starting field data file for the Bangkok tournament, confirming that to be the case. "A review of the changes to the MENA Tour is now under way by the OWGR. "Notice of these changes given by the MENA Tour is insufficient to allow OWGR to conduct the customary necessary review ahead of the LIV Golf Invitational Bangkok (October 7-9) and LIV Golf Invitational Jeddah (October 14-16). "Only after the review is complete will a decision be made on awarding points to the MENA Tour's new 'Limited Field Tournaments'."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liv-golfers-set-to-earn-ranking-points-after-strategic-alliance-with-mena-tour-522936">LIV golfers set to earn ranking points after strategic alliance with MENA Tour</a>

The MENA Tour has been inactive since the start of the global coronavirus pandemic in 2020. LIV has already staged five events in its inaugural year but without any ranking points awarded to its players -- including British Open champion Cameron Smith, former world number one Dustin Johnson and six-time major winner Phil Mickelson. Golfers on the rebel circuit have been banned from the PGA Tour, ruling out American players from qualifying for the 2023 Ryder Cup. European stars to have left for LIV, including stalwarts Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter and Sergio Garcia, have all plummeted down the world rankings and seem unlikely to make Luke Donald's team for the two-yearly contest, which takes place near Rome.

LIV Golf players will not receive world ranking points for this week's event in Bangkok or the tournament in Jeddah later this month, the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) organisation said on Thursday.

LIV Golf players will not receive world ranking points for this week's event in Bangkok or the tournament in Jeddah later this month, the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) organisation said on Thursday. The Saudi-backed LIV Series has yet to be given ranking points but the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) Tour announced on Wednesday that players at the next two events would be awarded points after a strategic alliance between the circuits. The top 50 players in the rankings qualify automatically for all four major tournaments. OWGR said it had been given insufficient notice and that a decision on whether to award ranking points would only be made following a review. The organisation said it received a communication from the MENA Tour at 1205 GMT on October 5, detailing "significant changes" to its membership structure along with an outline of the initial series of tournaments in the 2022/23 season. "OWGR notes that the first two tournaments in this series appeared to be the same as the LIV Golf Invitational Series tournaments in Bangkok and Jeddah," it said in a statement. "The communication from the MENA Tour included a starting field data file for the Bangkok tournament, confirming that to be the case. "A review of the changes to the MENA Tour is now under way by the OWGR. "Notice of these changes given by the MENA Tour is insufficient to allow OWGR to conduct the customary necessary review ahead of the LIV Golf Invitational Bangkok (October 7-9) and LIV Golf Invitational Jeddah (October 14-16). "Only after the review is complete will a decision be made on awarding points to the MENA Tour's new 'Limited Field Tournaments'." ALSO READ | LIV golfers set to earn ranking points after strategic alliance with MENA Tour The MENA Tour has been inactive since the start of the global coronavirus pandemic in 2020. LIV has already staged five events in its inaugural year but without any ranking points awarded to its players -- including British Open champion Cameron Smith, former world number one Dustin Johnson and six-time major winner Phil Mickelson. Golfers on the rebel circuit have been banned from the PGA Tour, ruling out American players from qualifying for the 2023 Ryder Cup. European stars to have left for LIV, including stalwarts Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter and Sergio Garcia, have all plummeted down the world rankings and seem unlikely to make Luke Donald's team for the two-yearly contest, which takes place near Rome.

Big blow to LIV Golf as players denied ranking points

Veteran English golfer Ian Poulter said it was the brand and the vision of the LIV Golf Series which played a significant role in driving his decision to join the rival league. The lucrative series is funded by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund and has been subjected to intense criticism from all corners ever since its inception.

LIV Golf has left the golf world divided with the PGA Tour currently locked in a court battle with the rival tour. The PGA Tour had recently countersued LIV, alleging that the rival golf circuit is competing using unfair practices by luring players with millions of dollars.

However, LIV Golf despite having shaken up the traditional structure in the sport remains unfazed as it prepares for its sixth tournament in Asia this week. LIV Gol has managed to assemble a star-studded expensive line-up consisting&nbsp;of the likes of&nbsp;Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Phil Mickelson among others and some of the big names will be in action during the event in Bangkok.

Poulter, who is among the stars to have signed up with LIV Golf, is currently in Bangkok where he opened up on a range of topics right from his decision to join the rebel league to his journey so far in an exclusive interaction with WION.

"Don't know if it (LIV Golf) has brought us together but we understood the ability of what this would give us. It gives us a platform to play golf, the same way the European tour has a platform, same way the Asian Tour and the same way the PGA tour. And players like myself have played these tours and tournaments all over the globe for 24 years.&nbsp;

"This is another outlet for us to be able to go and play golf. This is why we took the choice to join LIV, we saw the vision, we saw the brand and how it would add to the team format situation and I am proud to be in a position where we have our team set," Poulter said explaining his decision to join the rebel circuit.

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>

Poulter agreed they can be the pioneers of the rebel circuit which has shaken up the sport with its arrival. Expressing his optimism, the 46-year-old, who won 17 tournaments across multiple tours around the world, said LIV Golf's rapid growth is proof why it has big potential in the future.

"Yes, it has definitely shaken up the sport, there is no question about that. Calling us pioneers? It's a new entity, it's a start-up business, it's a business which has got traction extremely quickly. The viewership is growing extremely quickly. It is also kind of getting into the team format just like we have understood and that's the reason why we have got so many strong players playing in this series," Poulter explained.

While the PGA handed immediate bans to the players who signed up with LIV Golf, the DP World Tour refrained from banning rebel players but imposed fines on those joining the rebel circuit. A court hearing will take place in February to decide the fate of LIV Golf players, who want to continue in the DP World Tour.&nbsp;

Poulter, who was among the prominent names to stand up against sanctions and bans on LIV Golf players, said players have played multiple tours in the past and can continue doing so now.

"There has been a lot of talk, I have been part of the case against my position in Europe, I objected against the suspension and obviously the fine situation and we will see how that plays out but there has been an awful lot said. I am not going to elaborate, I don't think I need to, I feel it's out there. There is the ability to play multiple tours as we have done in the past and this shouldn't be any different," he told WION.

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tension-continues-as-pga-tour-files-countersuit-against-liv-golf-520964">Tension continues as PGA Tour files countersuit against LIV Golf</a>

LIV golfers have so far been deprived of any golf ranking points for competing in the rebel circuit. Many top players who have signed up for the breakaway circuit have suffered in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR) due to not being awarded points.&nbsp;

Stirring up the debate over world ranking points, Poulter called the current ranking system 'dated' and questioned whether it should be considered a valid entity as it stands. However, the English golfer insisted it will be best for all parties if the governing bodies can find a way to give LIV golfers ranking points within the current system without tweaking much.

"We are definitely out there to entertain the fans like we have done for the last 24 years. The way the governing bodies are looking at it, is something to be questioned. They need to sit together and work out a solution and whether the official world rankings are a valid entity as it stands today.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-rankings-risk-being-laughing-stock-if-liv-excluded-says-greg-norman-516108">Golf rankings risk being 'laughing stock' if LIV excluded, says Greg Norman</a>

It's looking more and more dated the way it stands and however, the majors themselves would actually see whether there is a possibility of a LIV qualification criteria into their event. We are not sure, it changes daily. Greg and the whole team that are active out there, and are trying to take a stand for all the players so we will have to wait and see," said Poulter.

"There is criteria in place that you will have to tick a number of boxes to be able to get world rankings and we are fully aware of that. If there are tweaks here and there, if there is a way to make it work within the actual system itself then it will be better for the overall golf fam.

It's a little bit of a broken system at the minute. The hope for every player that's out here paying is that there is level of senibility, the best players can compete against the best players in the world in the tournaments fans love to watch. We can only be hopeful that has some level of coming together."

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&nbsp;

Veteran English golfer Ian Poulter said it was the brand and the vision of the LIV Golf Series which played a significant role in driving his decision to join the rival league.

Veteran English golfer Ian Poulter said it was the brand and the vision of the LIV Golf Series which played a significant role in driving his decision to join the rival league. The lucrative series is funded by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund and has been subjected to intense criticism from all corners ever since its inception. LIV Golf has left the golf world divided with the PGA Tour currently locked in a court battle with the rival tour. The PGA Tour had recently countersued LIV, alleging that the rival golf circuit is competing using unfair practices by luring players with millions of dollars. However, LIV Golf despite having shaken up the traditional structure in the sport remains unfazed as it prepares for its sixth tournament in Asia this week. LIV Gol has managed to assemble a star-studded expensive line-up consisting of the likes of Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Phil Mickelson among others and some of the big names will be in action during the event in Bangkok. Poulter, who is among the stars to have signed up with LIV Golf, is currently in Bangkok where he opened up on a range of topics right from his decision to join the rebel league to his journey so far in an exclusive interaction with WION. "Don't know if it (LIV Golf) has brought us together but we understood the ability of what this would give us. It gives us a platform to play golf, the same way the European tour has a platform, same way the Asian Tour and the same way the PGA tour. And players like myself have played these tours and tournaments all over the globe for 24 years. "This is another outlet for us to be able to go and play golf. This is why we took the choice to join LIV, we saw the vision, we saw the brand and how it would add to the team format situation and I am proud to be in a position where we have our team set," Poulter said explaining his decision to join the rebel circuit. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri Poulter agreed they can be the pioneers of the rebel circuit which has shaken up the sport with its arrival. Expressing his optimism, the 46-year-old, who won 17 tournaments across multiple tours around the world, said LIV Golf's rapid growth is proof why it has big potential in the future. "Yes, it has definitely shaken up the sport, there is no question about that. Calling us pioneers? It's a new entity, it's a start-up business, it's a business which has got traction extremely quickly. The viewership is growing extremely quickly. It is also kind of getting into the team format just like we have understood and that's the reason why we have got so many strong players playing in this series," Poulter explained. While the PGA handed immediate bans to the players who signed up with LIV Golf, the DP World Tour refrained from banning rebel players but imposed fines on those joining the rebel circuit. A court hearing will take place in February to decide the fate of LIV Golf players, who want to continue in the DP World Tour. Poulter, who was among the prominent names to stand up against sanctions and bans on LIV Golf players, said players have played multiple tours in the past and can continue doing so now. "There has been a lot of talk, I have been part of the case against my position in Europe, I objected against the suspension and obviously the fine situation and we will see how that plays out but there has been an awful lot said. I am not going to elaborate, I don't think I need to, I feel it's out there. There is the ability to play multiple tours as we have done in the past and this shouldn't be any different," he told WION. × Also Read: Tension continues as PGA Tour files countersuit against LIV Golf LIV golfers have so far been deprived of any golf ranking points for competing in the rebel circuit. Many top players who have signed up for the breakaway circuit have suffered in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR) due to not being awarded points. Stirring up the debate over world ranking points, Poulter called the current ranking system 'dated' and questioned whether it should be considered a valid entity as it stands. However, the English golfer insisted it will be best for all parties if the governing bodies can find a way to give LIV golfers ranking points within the current system without tweaking much. "We are definitely out there to entertain the fans like we have done for the last 24 years. The way the governing bodies are looking at it, is something to be questioned. They need to sit together and work out a solution and whether the official world rankings are a valid entity as it stands today. Also Read: Golf rankings risk being 'laughing stock' if LIV excluded, says Greg Norman It's looking more and more dated the way it stands and however, the majors themselves would actually see whether there is a possibility of a LIV qualification criteria into their event. We are not sure, it changes daily. Greg and the whole team that are active out there, and are trying to take a stand for all the players so we will have to wait and see," said Poulter. "There is criteria in place that you will have to tick a number of boxes to be able to get world rankings and we are fully aware of that. If there are tweaks here and there, if there is a way to make it work within the actual system itself then it will be better for the overall golf fam. It's a little bit of a broken system at the minute. The hope for every player that's out here paying is that there is level of senibility, the best players can compete against the best players in the world in the tournaments fans love to watch. We can only be hopeful that has some level of coming together." ×

EXCLUSIVE! We saw the vision: Ian Poulter explains his decision to join LIV Golf, stirs world ranking debate

Canada's Mackenzie Hughes sank an eight-foot birdie putt on the second playoff hole Sunday to defeat Austria's Sepp Straka and win the PGA Sanderson Farms Championship. The 31-year-old from Hamilton captured his second career PGA crown after he and Straka both finished 72 holes on 17-under par 271 at The Country Club of Jackson in Mississippi.

"Words can't describe it," Hughes said. "I've been working so hard, putting in some hours. It just feels so good. "It's the coolest feeling in the world. Winning happens so infrequently that when we do get to win it's super special."

World number 82 Hughes won his only prior PGA title at the 2016 RSM Classic, winning a five-man playoff that week with a par on the third extra hole. "Definitely it feels a little sweeter than the first one," Hughes said. "I was just fighting like hell to stay in it. Somehow I was able to pull through."

Ending a six-year title drought was a thrill. "This is the stuff that makes you feel alive," Hughes said. "It's a feeling you crave and a feeling you want more of -- it will keep me working hard." Hughes made two great par saves at 18 to give himself the chance at the winning putt there. At 18 in regulation, Hughes was way left off the tee an over the green, but putted from 35 yards to within four feet of the hole and made the par putt to force the playoff.

Straka fired a five-under 67 in regulation while Hughes shot 69. The playoff began at 18 and Straka had a 20-foot birdie putt while Hughes was in a bunker. Hughes blasted out to five feet, Straka missed his putt and both tapped in to extend matters. "Those par saves down the stretch, I was just trying to will the ball in the hole," Hughes said. "That kind of describes my game a bit, that grit and that perseverance. The second one felt harder than the first one that's for sure."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-masters-champion-adam-scott-doesnt-view-liv-series-as-pure-evil-for-golf-521600">Former Masters champion Adam Scott doesn't view LIV Series as 'pure evil' for golf</a>

Again they played 18, this time Hughes and Straka each having birdie putts. Straka missed from the fringe leaving Hughes an eight-footer for the victory. Hughes rolled in the putt and pumped his right first in celebration.

"Probably a little bit of relief. It has been a while," Hughes said of his emotions at that moment. "I've had some close calls. Finishing second, while it's still great, kind of stings when you are that close.&nbsp; "I just wasn't going to accept that today."

Straka, ranked 36th, won his first PGA title in February at the Honda Classic and nearly grabbed his second in August before losing a playoff to Will Zalatoris at the St. Jude Championship. "Hit good putts. Gave myself good chances. Unfortunately I couldn't convert," Straka said. "I played great golf on a tough Sunday. It's good to know my game is in a good spot."

South African Garrick Higgo was third on 272 after a closing 68, finishing one stroke ahead of countryman Dean Burmester. American Mark Hubbard, the 54-hole leader seeking his first PGA title, fired a 74 to share fifth on 275 with compatriots Nick Hardy and Keegan Bradley and Argentina's Emiliano Grillo.

Canada's Mackenzie Hughes sank an eight-foot birdie putt on the second playoff hole Sunday to defeat Austria's Sepp Straka and win the PGA Sanderson Farms Championship.

Canada's Mackenzie Hughes sank an eight-foot birdie putt on the second playoff hole Sunday to defeat Austria's Sepp Straka and win the PGA Sanderson Farms Championship. The 31-year-old from Hamilton captured his second career PGA crown after he and Straka both finished 72 holes on 17-under par 271 at The Country Club of Jackson in Mississippi. "Words can't describe it," Hughes said. "I've been working so hard, putting in some hours. It just feels so good. "It's the coolest feeling in the world. Winning happens so infrequently that when we do get to win it's super special." World number 82 Hughes won his only prior PGA title at the 2016 RSM Classic, winning a five-man playoff that week with a par on the third extra hole. "Definitely it feels a little sweeter than the first one," Hughes said. "I was just fighting like hell to stay in it. Somehow I was able to pull through." Ending a six-year title drought was a thrill. "This is the stuff that makes you feel alive," Hughes said. "It's a feeling you crave and a feeling you want more of -- it will keep me working hard." Hughes made two great par saves at 18 to give himself the chance at the winning putt there. At 18 in regulation, Hughes was way left off the tee an over the green, but putted from 35 yards to within four feet of the hole and made the par putt to force the playoff. Straka fired a five-under 67 in regulation while Hughes shot 69. The playoff began at 18 and Straka had a 20-foot birdie putt while Hughes was in a bunker. Hughes blasted out to five feet, Straka missed his putt and both tapped in to extend matters. "Those par saves down the stretch, I was just trying to will the ball in the hole," Hughes said. "That kind of describes my game a bit, that grit and that perseverance. The second one felt harder than the first one that's for sure." ALSO READ | Former Masters champion Adam Scott doesn't view LIV Series as 'pure evil' for golf Again they played 18, this time Hughes and Straka each having birdie putts. Straka missed from the fringe leaving Hughes an eight-footer for the victory. Hughes rolled in the putt and pumped his right first in celebration. "Probably a little bit of relief. It has been a while," Hughes said of his emotions at that moment. "I've had some close calls. Finishing second, while it's still great, kind of stings when you are that close. "I just wasn't going to accept that today." Straka, ranked 36th, won his first PGA title in February at the Honda Classic and nearly grabbed his second in August before losing a playoff to Will Zalatoris at the St. Jude Championship. "Hit good putts. Gave myself good chances. Unfortunately I couldn't convert," Straka said. "I played great golf on a tough Sunday. It's good to know my game is in a good spot." South African Garrick Higgo was third on 272 after a closing 68, finishing one stroke ahead of countryman Dean Burmester. American Mark Hubbard, the 54-hole leader seeking his first PGA title, fired a 74 to share fifth on 275 with compatriots Nick Hardy and Keegan Bradley and Argentina's Emiliano Grillo.

Mackenzie Hughes beats Sepp Straka in playoff to clinch PGA Sanderson Farms title

Former Masters champion Adam Scott said he does not see the controversial LIV Series as "pure evil" for the game of golf and called on the Saudi-backed circuit and the PGA Tour to move on from their feud.

LIV Golf has lured away some of the PGA Tour's top members with huge sums of money, while those who joined the rebel circuit were suspended by the PGA Tour.

LIV has filed a lawsuit accusing the PGA Tour of antitrust violations, while the U.S. tour has filed a counterclaim.

Scott, who announced on Friday he would play the Australian PGA Championship for the first time since 2019, said both circuits had to do what was best for them.

"Maybe because I'm a little less emotive about it, I can be a voice of reason for one side or another," the 2013 Masters champion told reporters on Friday. "I don't necessarily see LIV as just pure evil for the game of golf.

"Hopefully we can get beyond people having shots at each other and each organisation can move on with what they want to do," added Scott.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tension-continues-as-pga-tour-files-countersuit-against-liv-golf-520964">Tension continues as PGA Tour files countersuit against LIV Golf</a>

"I believe the PGA Tour has to do what's best for their product and LIV is going to do what is best for their product. I don't have a problem with either of them."

The LIV series is bankrolled by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund and critics have accused it of being a vehicle for the country to attempt to improve its reputation in the face of criticism of its human rights record.

The PGA Tour has suspended players who joined the rebel tour but Cameron Smith and other LIV players will be allowed to participate in the Nov. 24-27 tournament at Royal Queensland.

Both of Australia's biggest events, the Australian Open and PGA Championship, are now co-sanctioned by the DP World Tour but officials have said LIV players will still be welcome.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-tries-his-hand-at-golf-along-with-kapil-dev-video-goes-viral-watch-521282">MS Dhoni tries his hand at golf along with Kapil Dev, video goes viral - Watch</a>

While fellow Australians Smith and Marc Leishman have made the switch to LIV, Scott said they had not changed since joining the lucrative series.

"I completely understand anybody doing it," Scott said.

"They have been offered an opportunity and it suits them. More power to them. I really want it to work out for them. They may or may not be taking a risk.

"As far as Cam and Leish recruiting me, they've got plenty of cash now so they're more than welcome to make me an offer ... I probably haven't been able to put myself in a position where I'm willing to give up trying to win major championships."

Former Masters champion Adam Scott said he does not see the controversial LIV Series as "pure evil" for the game of golf and called on the Saudi-backed circuit and the PGA Tour to move on from their feud.

Former Masters champion Adam Scott said he does not see the controversial LIV Series as "pure evil" for the game of golf and called on the Saudi-backed circuit and the PGA Tour to move on from their feud. LIV Golf has lured away some of the PGA Tour's top members with huge sums of money, while those who joined the rebel circuit were suspended by the PGA Tour. LIV has filed a lawsuit accusing the PGA Tour of antitrust violations, while the U.S. tour has filed a counterclaim. Scott, who announced on Friday he would play the Australian PGA Championship for the first time since 2019, said both circuits had to do what was best for them. "Maybe because I'm a little less emotive about it, I can be a voice of reason for one side or another," the 2013 Masters champion told reporters on Friday. "I don't necessarily see LIV as just pure evil for the game of golf. "Hopefully we can get beyond people having shots at each other and each organisation can move on with what they want to do," added Scott. Also Read: Tension continues as PGA Tour files countersuit against LIV Golf "I believe the PGA Tour has to do what's best for their product and LIV is going to do what is best for their product. I don't have a problem with either of them." The LIV series is bankrolled by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund and critics have accused it of being a vehicle for the country to attempt to improve its reputation in the face of criticism of its human rights record. The PGA Tour has suspended players who joined the rebel tour but Cameron Smith and other LIV players will be allowed to participate in the Nov. 24-27 tournament at Royal Queensland. Both of Australia's biggest events, the Australian Open and PGA Championship, are now co-sanctioned by the DP World Tour but officials have said LIV players will still be welcome. Also Read: MS Dhoni tries his hand at golf along with Kapil Dev, video goes viral - Watch While fellow Australians Smith and Marc Leishman have made the switch to LIV, Scott said they had not changed since joining the lucrative series. "I completely understand anybody doing it," Scott said. "They have been offered an opportunity and it suits them. More power to them. I really want it to work out for them. They may or may not be taking a risk. "As far as Cam and Leish recruiting me, they've got plenty of cash now so they're more than welcome to make me an offer ... I probably haven't been able to put myself in a position where I'm willing to give up trying to win major championships."

Former Masters champion Adam Scott doesn't view LIV Series as 'pure evil' for golf

India's World Cup-winning captains Kapil Dev and MS Dhoni made heads turn as the legendary duo were spotted playing golf together on Friday (September 30). Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in August 2020, joined Kapil at the latter's golf tournament --&nbsp;named the Kapil Dev - Grant Thornton Invitational 2022 event in Gurugram.

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It’s a legendary reunion at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KDGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KDGT</a> Invitational! 
 
We are delighted to welcome MS Dhoni at our golf tournament, Kapil Dev - Grant Thornton Invitational 2022. 
 
Stay tuned for more updates! <a href="https://t.co/TbQomYEP6f">pic.twitter.com/TbQomYEP6f</a>
— Kapil Dev - Grant Thornton (@KDGT_golf) <a href="https://twitter.com/KDGT_golf/status/1575729610729586689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-names-star-player-who-just-missed-a-spot-in-t20-world-cup-squad-520942">BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly names star player who 'just missed' a spot in T20 World Cup squad</a>

A video has now gone viral on social media platforms where Dhoni his trying his hand at the game. Here's the clip of the wicketkeeper-batter hitting it big with a golf stick:

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MS Dhoni playing Golf. <a href="https://t.co/hpuU3tpsst">pic.twitter.com/hpuU3tpsst</a>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1575822498888720384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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During the US Open 2022 edition, which ended on September 11, Dhoni and Kapil were spotted enjoying the men's quarter-final clash between eventual winner Carlos Alcaraz and&nbsp;Jannik Sinner at the iconic&nbsp;Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.&nbsp;

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Indian cricketing royalty at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> 🇮🇳🏏🎾 
 
Two former Indian World Cup winning captains, <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/therealkapildev?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@therealkapildev</a> graced the stands at Arthur Ashe yesterday as two young future Champions battled it out for 5 hours and 15 minutes 🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoBigOrGoHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoBigOrGoHome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SonySportsNetwork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SonySportsNetwork</a> <a href="https://t.co/e7CCgHJOMZ">pic.twitter.com/e7CCgHJOMZ</a>
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) <a href="https://twitter.com/SonySportsNetwk/status/1568132268782387201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While the 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil remains vocal on various aspects of the game in the modern era, Dhoni will next be seen on the 22-yard cricket strip during IPL 2023, where he will lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). It is expected to be his swansong tournament from the game.

India's World Cup-winning captains Kapil Dev and MS Dhoni made heads turn as the legendary duo were spotted playing golf together on Friday (September 30). Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in August 2020, joined Kapil at the latter's golf tournament -- named the Kapil Dev - Grant Thornton Invitational 2022 event in Gurugram.

India's World Cup-winning captains Kapil Dev and MS Dhoni made heads turn as the legendary duo were spotted playing golf together on Friday (September 30). Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in August 2020, joined Kapil at the latter's golf tournament -- named the Kapil Dev - Grant Thornton Invitational 2022 event in Gurugram. It’s a legendary reunion at #KDGT Invitational! We are delighted to welcome MS Dhoni at our golf tournament, Kapil Dev - Grant Thornton Invitational 2022. Stay tuned for more updates! pic.twitter.com/TbQomYEP6f — Kapil Dev - Grant Thornton (@KDGT_golf) September 30, 2022 × ALSO READ | BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly names star player who 'just missed' a spot in T20 World Cup squad A video has now gone viral on social media platforms where Dhoni his trying his hand at the game. Here's the clip of the wicketkeeper-batter hitting it big with a golf stick: MS Dhoni playing Golf. pic.twitter.com/hpuU3tpsst — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) September 30, 2022 × During the US Open 2022 edition, which ended on September 11, Dhoni and Kapil were spotted enjoying the men's quarter-final clash between eventual winner Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner at the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York. Indian cricketing royalty at the #USOpen 🇮🇳🏏🎾 Two former Indian World Cup winning captains, @msdhoni and @therealkapildev graced the stands at Arthur Ashe yesterday as two young future Champions battled it out for 5 hours and 15 minutes 🤩#GoBigOrGoHome #SonySportsNetwork pic.twitter.com/e7CCgHJOMZ — Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 9, 2022 × While the 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil remains vocal on various aspects of the game in the modern era, Dhoni will next be seen on the 22-yard cricket strip during IPL 2023, where he will lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). It is expected to be his swansong tournament from the game.

MS Dhoni tries his hand at golf along with Kapil Dev, video goes viral - Watch

The PGA Tour accused LIV Golf of using antitrust laws "as a cudgel" and undermining its contracts with players in a counterclaim to a lawsuit the Saudi-backed circuit filed last month. LIV Golf has lured away some of the PGA Tour's top members, including six-times major winner Phil Mickelson, with enormous purses while those who joined the rebel circuit were suspended by the PGA Tour.

In a lawsuit filed in August, LIV Golf, Mickelson and 10 other players accused the PGA Tour of antitrust violations. In its counterclaim, the PGA Tour said the golfers knew they had no unilateral right to defect, and that breaching their contracts would result in suspensions. "(This case) is a cynical effort to avoid competition and to freeride off of the Tour’s investment in the development of professional golf," it said.

The lawsuit accused LIV Golf of intentionally undermining the PGA Tour's contractual relationships with its players by paying former U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau and others huge sums of money to join the new tour. "LIV has openly sought to damage the Tour’s business relationships with its members by inducing them to breach their contractual requirements," the Tour said. "Even going so far as to pay members' legal fees to make breaching their contracts with Tour more enticing."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rory-mcilroy-reacts-to-tensions-between-pga-tour-and-liv-golf-says-golf-is-ripping-itself-apart-520817">Rory McIlroy reacts to tensions between PGA Tour and LIV Golf, says game is 'ripping itself apart'</a>

LIV responded in a statement accusing the Tour of making the counterclaims "in a transparent effort to divert attention from their anti-competitive conduct". "We remain confident that the courts and the justice system will right these wrongs," LIV added.

This week, Mickelson and three others dropped out of LIV's suit. The remaining plaintiffs are LIV Golf, DeChambeau, Matt Jones and Peter Uihlein. The LIV series is bankrolled by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund and critics have accused it of being a vehicle for the country to attempt to improve its reputation in the face of criticism of its human rights record.

The PGA Tour accused LIV Golf of using antitrust laws "as a cudgel" and undermining its contracts with players in a counterclaim to a lawsuit the Saudi-backed circuit filed last month.

The PGA Tour accused LIV Golf of using antitrust laws "as a cudgel" and undermining its contracts with players in a counterclaim to a lawsuit the Saudi-backed circuit filed last month. LIV Golf has lured away some of the PGA Tour's top members, including six-times major winner Phil Mickelson, with enormous purses while those who joined the rebel circuit were suspended by the PGA Tour. In a lawsuit filed in August, LIV Golf, Mickelson and 10 other players accused the PGA Tour of antitrust violations. In its counterclaim, the PGA Tour said the golfers knew they had no unilateral right to defect, and that breaching their contracts would result in suspensions. "(This case) is a cynical effort to avoid competition and to freeride off of the Tour’s investment in the development of professional golf," it said. The lawsuit accused LIV Golf of intentionally undermining the PGA Tour's contractual relationships with its players by paying former U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau and others huge sums of money to join the new tour. "LIV has openly sought to damage the Tour’s business relationships with its members by inducing them to breach their contractual requirements," the Tour said. "Even going so far as to pay members' legal fees to make breaching their contracts with Tour more enticing." ALSO READ | Rory McIlroy reacts to tensions between PGA Tour and LIV Golf, says game is 'ripping itself apart' LIV responded in a statement accusing the Tour of making the counterclaims "in a transparent effort to divert attention from their anti-competitive conduct". "We remain confident that the courts and the justice system will right these wrongs," LIV added. This week, Mickelson and three others dropped out of LIV's suit. The remaining plaintiffs are LIV Golf, DeChambeau, Matt Jones and Peter Uihlein. The LIV series is bankrolled by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund and critics have accused it of being a vehicle for the country to attempt to improve its reputation in the face of criticism of its human rights record.

Tension continues as PGA Tour files countersuit against LIV Golf

In recent times, golf has been in the headlines for the PGA Tour versus LIV Golf tussle. The tensions between PGA Tour and the Saudi-backed LIV Golf continue with each passing day and the divide has created a lot of stir.&nbsp;

Recently, FedEx Cup champion Rory McIlroy opined on the divide, which is leading to golf 'ripping itself apart'. He told Reuters, "I don't want a fractured game. I never have. You look at some other sports and what's happened and the game of golf is ripping itself apart right now."

"It's no good for the guys on, you know, this side or the sort of traditional system and it's no good for the guys on the other side, either. It's no good for anyone. There is a time and a place for it. I just think right now, with where everything is, it's probably not the right time."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/phil-mickelson-and-three-others-pull-out-of-liv-golf-lawsuit-against-pga-tour-520436">Phil Mickelson and three others pull out of LIV Golf lawsuit against PGA Tour</a>

Eleven LIV players had initially given their nod to&nbsp;support&nbsp;an antitrust lawsuit filed against the PGA Tour. They&nbsp;had accused the PGA Tour of&nbsp;operating as a monopoly and alleged the suspension of players joining the new circuit was not proper.

Nonetheless, eight of them&nbsp;pulled out from it recently, with Phil Mickelson joining them most recently.&nbsp;McIlroy feels a resolution can be possible but opines that legal proceedings are making matters worse at present.

"Right now with two lawsuits going on, and how heightened the rhetoric has been, I think we just need to let it cool off a little bit," McIlory said while speaking to BBC Sport on Wednesday. "I don't know what's going to happen with this lawsuit. No one's going to want to talk to anyone when it's hanging over the game, so I don't know what happens there.

"I've probably said a few things that are maybe too inflammatory at times, but it just comes from the heart and how much I hate what this is doing to the game. It has been an ugly year but&nbsp;there's a solution to everything. If we can send rockets to the moon and bring them back again and have them land on their own I'm sure we can figure out how to make professional golf cohesive again," the 33-year-old added.

Mickelson, in a statement brought forward by LIV Golf, said after his withdrawal from the lawsuit against PGA Tour, "I am focused on moving forward and extremely happy being a part of LIV, while also grateful for my time on the Tour.' 
 
"I am pleased that the players on Tour are finally being heard, respected, and valued and are benefitting from the changes recently implemented. With LIV's involvement in these issues, the players' rights will be protected, and I no longer feel it is necessary for me to be part of the proceedings," he added.

It looks like the PGA vs LIV Royal Rumble is far from over. It, however,&nbsp;is denting the game to a great extend in current scenario.

In recent times, golf has been in the headlines for the PGA Tour versus LIV Golf tussle. The tensions between PGA Tour and the Saudi-backed LIV Golf continue with each passing day and the divide has created a lot of stir.

In recent times, golf has been in the headlines for the PGA Tour versus LIV Golf tussle. The tensions between PGA Tour and the Saudi-backed LIV Golf continue with each passing day and the divide has created a lot of stir. Recently, FedEx Cup champion Rory McIlroy opined on the divide, which is leading to golf 'ripping itself apart'. He told Reuters, "I don't want a fractured game. I never have. You look at some other sports and what's happened and the game of golf is ripping itself apart right now." "It's no good for the guys on, you know, this side or the sort of traditional system and it's no good for the guys on the other side, either. It's no good for anyone. There is a time and a place for it. I just think right now, with where everything is, it's probably not the right time." ALSO READ | Phil Mickelson and three others pull out of LIV Golf lawsuit against PGA Tour Eleven LIV players had initially given their nod to support an antitrust lawsuit filed against the PGA Tour. They had accused the PGA Tour of operating as a monopoly and alleged the suspension of players joining the new circuit was not proper. Nonetheless, eight of them pulled out from it recently, with Phil Mickelson joining them most recently. McIlroy feels a resolution can be possible but opines that legal proceedings are making matters worse at present. "Right now with two lawsuits going on, and how heightened the rhetoric has been, I think we just need to let it cool off a little bit," McIlory said while speaking to BBC Sport on Wednesday. "I don't know what's going to happen with this lawsuit. No one's going to want to talk to anyone when it's hanging over the game, so I don't know what happens there. "I've probably said a few things that are maybe too inflammatory at times, but it just comes from the heart and how much I hate what this is doing to the game. It has been an ugly year but there's a solution to everything. If we can send rockets to the moon and bring them back again and have them land on their own I'm sure we can figure out how to make professional golf cohesive again," the 33-year-old added. Mickelson, in a statement brought forward by LIV Golf, said after his withdrawal from the lawsuit against PGA Tour, "I am focused on moving forward and extremely happy being a part of LIV, while also grateful for my time on the Tour.' "I am pleased that the players on Tour are finally being heard, respected, and valued and are benefitting from the changes recently implemented. With LIV's involvement in these issues, the players' rights will be protected, and I no longer feel it is necessary for me to be part of the proceedings," he added. It looks like the PGA vs LIV Royal Rumble is far from over. It, however, is denting the game to a great extend in current scenario.

Rory McIlroy reacts to tensions between PGA Tour and LIV Golf, says game is 'ripping itself apart'

Hall of Famer Phil Mickelson and three other golfers dropped out of a lawsuit on Tuesday which was filed against the&nbsp;PGA&nbsp;Tour last month over its decision to suspend players who participated on the new LIV Golf circuit. Mickelson, who counts six major championships among his 45 career&nbsp;PGA&nbsp;Tour wins, asked to be dismissed from the lawsuit along with Talor Gooch, Ian Poulter and Hudson Swafford. The players' decision to drop out of the lawsuit comes about a month after the&nbsp;PGA&nbsp;Tour, in a bid to curb the ongoing threat posed by LIV Golf, made sweeping changes including increased purses and an earnings assurance programme.

The $255 million LIV series is being bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, which critics say is a vehicle for the country to try to improve its image in the face of criticism of its human rights record. "I am focused on moving forward and extremely happy being a part of LIV, while also grateful for my time on the Tour," Mickelson said in a statement provided by LIV Golf. 
 
"I am pleased that the players on Tour are finally being heard, respected, and valued and are benefitting from the changes recently implemented. With LIV's involvement in these issues, the players' rights will be protected, and I no longer feel it is necessary for me to be part of the proceedings."

Mickelson and a long list of golfers filed the lawsuit in early August over its decision to suspend players, including Mickelson, for playing on the new LIV Golf circuit. It was reported in July that the U.S. Justice Department was investigating whether the&nbsp;PGA&nbsp;Tour broke antitrust law in fending off the LIV Golf circuit. "LIV stands with the players whom the&nbsp;PGA&nbsp;Tour has treated so poorly, but we also recognize that to be successful, we no longer need a wide array of players to be on the suit," LIV said in a statement. 
 
"We have our players' backs and will press our case in court against the&nbsp;PGA's anti-competitive behavior."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dutch-cyclist-mathieu-van-der-poel-sentenced-fined-after-pleading-guilty-to-assault-of-teenage-girls-520001">Dutch cyclist Mathieu&nbsp;Van der Poel sentenced, fined after pleading guilty to assault of teenage girls</a>

The lawsuit also shed light on the status of fan favourite Mickelson, who took a self-imposed break in February when excerpts from an unauthorised biography revealed he had called the Saudis "scary" but was willing to look past their human rights record. According to the lawsuit, Mickelson was suspended by the&nbsp;PGA&nbsp;Tour in March for, among other alleged reasons, trying to recruit players to LIV Golf and that his appeal was denied. 
 
Mickelson applied for reinstatement in June, the lawsuit says, but that request was denied given his participation in the inaugural LIV event earlier that month.

In addition to denying Mickelson's request, the lawsuit said the golfer was forbidden from seeking reinstatement until March 2023, which was then extended until March 2024 after he played the second LIV event. Mickelson's ban was only announced in June, shortly after he teed off in the first LIV event, when the&nbsp;PGA&nbsp;Tour announced its decision to suspend all members who joined the lucrative series and said anyone else who made the jump would face the same fate.

Hall of Famer Phil Mickelson and three other golfers dropped out of a lawsuit on Tuesday which was filed against the PGA Tour last month over its decision to suspend players who participated on the new LIV Golf circuit.

Hall of Famer Phil Mickelson and three other golfers dropped out of a lawsuit on Tuesday which was filed against the PGA Tour last month over its decision to suspend players who participated on the new LIV Golf circuit. Mickelson, who counts six major championships among his 45 career PGA Tour wins, asked to be dismissed from the lawsuit along with Talor Gooch, Ian Poulter and Hudson Swafford. The players' decision to drop out of the lawsuit comes about a month after the PGA Tour, in a bid to curb the ongoing threat posed by LIV Golf, made sweeping changes including increased purses and an earnings assurance programme. The $255 million LIV series is being bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, which critics say is a vehicle for the country to try to improve its image in the face of criticism of its human rights record. "I am focused on moving forward and extremely happy being a part of LIV, while also grateful for my time on the Tour," Mickelson said in a statement provided by LIV Golf. "I am pleased that the players on Tour are finally being heard, respected, and valued and are benefitting from the changes recently implemented. With LIV's involvement in these issues, the players' rights will be protected, and I no longer feel it is necessary for me to be part of the proceedings." Mickelson and a long list of golfers filed the lawsuit in early August over its decision to suspend players, including Mickelson, for playing on the new LIV Golf circuit. It was reported in July that the U.S. Justice Department was investigating whether the PGA Tour broke antitrust law in fending off the LIV Golf circuit. "LIV stands with the players whom the PGA Tour has treated so poorly, but we also recognize that to be successful, we no longer need a wide array of players to be on the suit," LIV said in a statement. "We have our players' backs and will press our case in court against the PGA's anti-competitive behavior." ALSO READ | Dutch cyclist Mathieu Van der Poel sentenced, fined after pleading guilty to assault of teenage girls The lawsuit also shed light on the status of fan favourite Mickelson, who took a self-imposed break in February when excerpts from an unauthorised biography revealed he had called the Saudis "scary" but was willing to look past their human rights record. According to the lawsuit, Mickelson was suspended by the PGA Tour in March for, among other alleged reasons, trying to recruit players to LIV Golf and that his appeal was denied. Mickelson applied for reinstatement in June, the lawsuit says, but that request was denied given his participation in the inaugural LIV event earlier that month. In addition to denying Mickelson's request, the lawsuit said the golfer was forbidden from seeking reinstatement until March 2023, which was then extended until March 2024 after he played the second LIV event. Mickelson's ban was only announced in June, shortly after he teed off in the first LIV event, when the PGA Tour announced its decision to suspend all members who joined the lucrative series and said anyone else who made the jump would face the same fate.

Phil Mickelson and three others pull out of LIV Golf lawsuit against PGA Tour

The United States won the&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;for a ninth consecutive time on Sunday with Tokyo Olympic champion Xander Schauffele delivering the clinching point in a 17.5-12.5 triumph over the Internationals. Schauffele never trailed in defeating Canada's Corey Conners 1-up, sinking a three-foot par putt at the 18th hole to lift the US squad to 15.5 points and seal the overall triumph at Quail Hollow.

"It feels good to win," Schauffele said. "It got pretty close there for a little bit. Winning is winning." The Americans, who led 11-7 entering the 12 final singles matches, improved to 12-1-1 in the all-time rivalry and have never lost on home soil. "They played great," US captain Davis Love said. "It was hard. They put in a lot of effort the last three weeks. They came in ready to go."

Conners, winless for the week, missed a five-foot par putt at 17 to keep Schauffele 1-up. At 18, Schauffele dropped his third shot three feet from the hole and, after Conners missed his third from a bunker, rolled in the deciding putt to tie the hole, win the match and set off a US celebration. "I was handed the opportunity and I was able to take advantage of it," Schauffele said.

The Internationals couldn't make the greatest last-day comeback in&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;history and haven't lifted the trophy since 1998. "We're a little disappointed," Internationals captain Trevor Immelman said. "We believed in ourselves. "We had an amazing week. They were fighting. These guys have massive hearts. I'll go into battle with them any day."

With 10 of the world's 16 top-ranked players, the US team was a heavy favorite over a global side that lost British Open champion Cam Smith and several other top players who jumped from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf, making them ineligible. "Trevor and his guys did a great job of rising to the occasion," Love said.

Tony Finau won five of the last nine holes to defeat Canada's Taylor Pendrith 3&amp;1 and lift the Americans within a point of clinching the&nbsp;Cup. "I fought as hard as I've ever fought in a match," Finau said. "You just have to get the job done." Jordan Spieth, winless in seven prior Ryder and&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;singles matches, became only the sixth player to go 5-0 in a single&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup, winning four holes in a row late to defeat Australia's Cam Davis 4&amp;3 for the first US point.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scrappy-internationals-stun-us-to-leave-presidents-cup-up-for-grabs-519535">Scrappy Internationals stun US to leave Presidents Cup up for grabs</a>

"I was extra nervous," Spieth said. "I wanted to get that monkey off my back. They are looking for red on the board and it feels really good to finally provide that. "You can't put a price on this. I did as much as I could this week."

Patrick Cantlay never trailed in beating Australia's Adam Scott 3&amp;2 for the second US point. Cantlay went 3-up after four holes and Scott,&nbsp;Cup-less in 10 tries, was never nearer than 2-down after that. Sam Burns finished the week winless but helped the US cause by tying Japan's Hideki Matsuyama.

<h2>- Thomas, Scheffler lose -</h2>

The global stars pulled off two early upsets to delay the US party. South Korea's&nbsp;Kim Si-woo beat Justin Thomas 1-up, the American falling to 0-3 in career&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;singles. Thomas, who went 4-0 with Spieth in pairs, lost after Kim sank a 10-foot birdie putt at 18 and Thomas missed his from three inches closer.

"I believed I could do it and I did it," Kim said. "I've never (felt) this pressure. Real hard match. I kept the pressure to him and kept positive and that's why it worked."

Thomas won the 2017 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow and his second major at this year's PGA. Colombian Sebastian Munoz beat top-ranked Scottie Scheffler 2&amp;1, the Masters champion going 0-3-1 this week, worst mark of any world number one in a&nbsp;Presidents&nbsp;Cup.

"It was tough," Munoz said. "It was one of the best things I've ever achieved in my life. It took everything. I threw everything at him." In post-clinch finishes, South Korea's Im Sung-jae beat Cameron Young 1-up, Lee Kyoung-hoon downed Billy Horschel 3&amp;1, Max Homa beat South Korea's Kim Joo-hyung 1-up, Collin Morikawa defeated Chile's Mito Pereira 3&amp;2 and South African Christiaan Bezuidenhout downed Kevin Kisner 2&amp;1.\

The United States won the Presidents Cup for a ninth consecutive time on Sunday with Tokyo Olympic champion Xander Schauffele delivering the clinching point in a 17.

The United States won the Presidents Cup for a ninth consecutive time on Sunday with Tokyo Olympic champion Xander Schauffele delivering the clinching point in a 17.5-12.5 triumph over the Internationals. Schauffele never trailed in defeating Canada's Corey Conners 1-up, sinking a three-foot par putt at the 18th hole to lift the US squad to 15.5 points and seal the overall triumph at Quail Hollow. "It feels good to win," Schauffele said. "It got pretty close there for a little bit. Winning is winning." The Americans, who led 11-7 entering the 12 final singles matches, improved to 12-1-1 in the all-time rivalry and have never lost on home soil. "They played great," US captain Davis Love said. "It was hard. They put in a lot of effort the last three weeks. They came in ready to go." Conners, winless for the week, missed a five-foot par putt at 17 to keep Schauffele 1-up. At 18, Schauffele dropped his third shot three feet from the hole and, after Conners missed his third from a bunker, rolled in the deciding putt to tie the hole, win the match and set off a US celebration. "I was handed the opportunity and I was able to take advantage of it," Schauffele said. The Internationals couldn't make the greatest last-day comeback in Presidents Cup history and haven't lifted the trophy since 1998. "We're a little disappointed," Internationals captain Trevor Immelman said. "We believed in ourselves. "We had an amazing week. They were fighting. These guys have massive hearts. I'll go into battle with them any day." With 10 of the world's 16 top-ranked players, the US team was a heavy favorite over a global side that lost British Open champion Cam Smith and several other top players who jumped from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf, making them ineligible. "Trevor and his guys did a great job of rising to the occasion," Love said. Tony Finau won five of the last nine holes to defeat Canada's Taylor Pendrith 3&1 and lift the Americans within a point of clinching the Cup. "I fought as hard as I've ever fought in a match," Finau said. "You just have to get the job done." Jordan Spieth, winless in seven prior Ryder and Presidents Cup singles matches, became only the sixth player to go 5-0 in a single Presidents Cup, winning four holes in a row late to defeat Australia's Cam Davis 4&3 for the first US point. ALSO READ | Scrappy Internationals stun US to leave Presidents Cup up for grabs "I was extra nervous," Spieth said. "I wanted to get that monkey off my back. They are looking for red on the board and it feels really good to finally provide that. "You can't put a price on this. I did as much as I could this week." Patrick Cantlay never trailed in beating Australia's Adam Scott 3&2 for the second US point. Cantlay went 3-up after four holes and Scott, Cup-less in 10 tries, was never nearer than 2-down after that. Sam Burns finished the week winless but helped the US cause by tying Japan's Hideki Matsuyama. - Thomas, Scheffler lose - The global stars pulled off two early upsets to delay the US party. South Korea's Kim Si-woo beat Justin Thomas 1-up, the American falling to 0-3 in career Presidents Cup singles. Thomas, who went 4-0 with Spieth in pairs, lost after Kim sank a 10-foot birdie putt at 18 and Thomas missed his from three inches closer. "I believed I could do it and I did it," Kim said. "I've never (felt) this pressure. Real hard match. I kept the pressure to him and kept positive and that's why it worked." Thomas won the 2017 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow and his second major at this year's PGA. Colombian Sebastian Munoz beat top-ranked Scottie Scheffler 2&1, the Masters champion going 0-3-1 this week, worst mark of any world number one in a Presidents Cup. "It was tough," Munoz said. "It was one of the best things I've ever achieved in my life. It took everything. I threw everything at him." In post-clinch finishes, South Korea's Im Sung-jae beat Cameron Young 1-up, Lee Kyoung-hoon downed Billy Horschel 3&1, Max Homa beat South Korea's Kim Joo-hyung 1-up, Collin Morikawa defeated Chile's Mito Pereira 3&2 and South African Christiaan Bezuidenhout downed Kevin Kisner 2&1.\

United States secures ninth successive Presidents Cup

The underdog Internationals bared their teeth on Saturday, outplaying the United States in a marathon day of golf to leave American fans stunned and the Presidents Cup suddenly up for grabs.

The heavily favoured U.S. had started the day with a commanding 8-2 advantage and in position to register a Presidents Cup first - securing the golden trophy on Saturday.

But the Americans took their foot of the gas, opening the door for the scrappy Internationals, who split the morning foursomes 2-2 and then took three of four points in the afternoon fourballs to chop the U.S. advantage to 11-7.

"They (the U.S. players) were pretty mad," said U.S. captain Davis Love III. "We wanted to win every session, and we tied one and lost one today.

"So that wasn't part of our plan.

"They're going to come out mad tomorrow." While it was an inspiring performance by the Internationals they will head into Sunday's decisive singles still facing a daunting challenge of overhauling a U.S. team that needs just 4-1/2 points from the 12 matches to get to the 15 1/2 needed to secure victory.

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The Internationals, with a record eight Presidents Cup debutants in their 12-man team, were given little chance against a U.S. powerhouse featuring nine of the top 15 players in the world and had looked ready to be steamrollered after being routed in the opening two sessions.

International captain Trevor Immelman had vowed his men would fight until the final bell and they have now earned the opportunity to pull off what many believe would be the biggest upset in golf.

"We were in a deep hole," said Immelman. "We've been fighting our guts out all week and we've just been trying to stay patient to wait for some putts to go in.

"Finally, this afternoon, some putts started to fall for us."

A long day at the Quail Hollow Club began in the dawn chill but the early start did not stop fans from packing into the first tee stands, the pro-American crowd sending off Love's men to what they hoped would be another day of domination.

But the raucous cheers fell silent in the Charlotte twilight when the Australian duo of Adam Scott and Cam Davis rallied from 1-down to Sam Burns and Billy Horschel with three to play to register a 1-up win.

After splitting the foursome the Americans had looked to get back on track in the fourball when the U.S. power pairing of Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas picked up their fourth win in four matches subduing Japan's Hideki Matsuyama and Canadian Taylor Pendrith 4&amp;3.

But that would be the only U.S. point of the afternoon as the Internationals continued to build on their morning momentum.

South Korea's Im Sung-jae and Colombian Sebastian Munoz started the rally with a 3&amp;2 win over Tony Finau an Kevin Kisner.

But the spark the Internationals had been seeking came from fearless 20-year-old Kim Joo-hyung, his big putts and even bigger celebrations providing his team with an emotional jolt.

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Kim (also known as Tom Kim) partnered with Kim Si-woo to take down the unbeaten U.S. pair of world numbers four and five Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele 1-up when the 20-year-old rookie dropped a nerve jangling 10-foot birdie putt at the 18th for the win.

"This young kid has burst onto the scene in the last six months, he's been such a tremendous gift to our sport," praised Immelman. "He has an ability to be a global superstar.

"I thought something that was so cool on the final hole today, he's about 240 yards out.

"I look back, I see the who's who of American golf in golf carts behind him.

"I see (Justin) Thomas, I see (Jordan) Spieth, I see (Tony) Finau, I see (Max) Homa, all of them sitting on carts 15 yards from him.

"And this kid pures a two iron to 10-feet and makes the putt."

The underdog Internationals bared their teeth on Saturday, outplaying the United States in a marathon day of golf to leave American fans stunned and the Presidents Cup suddenly up for grabs.

The underdog Internationals bared their teeth on Saturday, outplaying the United States in a marathon day of golf to leave American fans stunned and the Presidents Cup suddenly up for grabs. The heavily favoured U.S. had started the day with a commanding 8-2 advantage and in position to register a Presidents Cup first - securing the golden trophy on Saturday. But the Americans took their foot of the gas, opening the door for the scrappy Internationals, who split the morning foursomes 2-2 and then took three of four points in the afternoon fourballs to chop the U.S. advantage to 11-7. "They (the U.S. players) were pretty mad," said U.S. captain Davis Love III. "We wanted to win every session, and we tied one and lost one today. "So that wasn't part of our plan. "They're going to come out mad tomorrow." While it was an inspiring performance by the Internationals they will head into Sunday's decisive singles still facing a daunting challenge of overhauling a U.S. team that needs just 4-1/2 points from the 12 matches to get to the 15 1/2 needed to secure victory. Also Read: Paul Pogba's brother Mathias alleges Juventus star paid witch doctor to ‘neutralise’ Kylian Mbappe The Internationals, with a record eight Presidents Cup debutants in their 12-man team, were given little chance against a U.S. powerhouse featuring nine of the top 15 players in the world and had looked ready to be steamrollered after being routed in the opening two sessions. International captain Trevor Immelman had vowed his men would fight until the final bell and they have now earned the opportunity to pull off what many believe would be the biggest upset in golf. "We were in a deep hole," said Immelman. "We've been fighting our guts out all week and we've just been trying to stay patient to wait for some putts to go in. "Finally, this afternoon, some putts started to fall for us." A long day at the Quail Hollow Club began in the dawn chill but the early start did not stop fans from packing into the first tee stands, the pro-American crowd sending off Love's men to what they hoped would be another day of domination. But the raucous cheers fell silent in the Charlotte twilight when the Australian duo of Adam Scott and Cam Davis rallied from 1-down to Sam Burns and Billy Horschel with three to play to register a 1-up win. After splitting the foursome the Americans had looked to get back on track in the fourball when the U.S. power pairing of Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas picked up their fourth win in four matches subduing Japan's Hideki Matsuyama and Canadian Taylor Pendrith 4&3. But that would be the only U.S. point of the afternoon as the Internationals continued to build on their morning momentum. South Korea's Im Sung-jae and Colombian Sebastian Munoz started the rally with a 3&2 win over Tony Finau an Kevin Kisner. But the spark the Internationals had been seeking came from fearless 20-year-old Kim Joo-hyung, his big putts and even bigger celebrations providing his team with an emotional jolt. Also Read: Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge breaks marathon world record in Berlin Kim (also known as Tom Kim) partnered with Kim Si-woo to take down the unbeaten U.S. pair of world numbers four and five Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele 1-up when the 20-year-old rookie dropped a nerve jangling 10-foot birdie putt at the 18th for the win. "This young kid has burst onto the scene in the last six months, he's been such a tremendous gift to our sport," praised Immelman. "He has an ability to be a global superstar. "I thought something that was so cool on the final hole today, he's about 240 yards out. "I look back, I see the who's who of American golf in golf carts behind him. "I see (Justin) Thomas, I see (Jordan) Spieth, I see (Tony) Finau, I see (Max) Homa, all of them sitting on carts 15 yards from him. "And this kid pures a two iron to 10-feet and makes the putt."

Scrappy Internationals stun US to leave Presidents Cup up for grabs

Tiger Woods, playing captain in a 2019 US victory, couldn't be an assistant at this week's Presidents Cup due to severe leg injuries suffered in a car crash last year. But that doesn't mean the 15-time major champion isn't helping US captain Davis Love and the American staff against the Internationals at Quail Hollow.

Love said Woods remains a key advisor even though it's from a distance. "We're including him, as usual," Love said. "He's having fun. He obviously misses it. I know he wishes he were here." Love called Woods during Thursday's opening matches while watching groups play the sixth hole. "We talked for a while," Love said. "I said, 'At least you're watching. You can call if you see anything.'

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Woods made his comeback following the injuries at the Masters in April, 14 months after the auto accident in Southern California. He completed 72 holes over hilly Augusta National to finish 47th. Woods made the cut in May at the PGA Championship at Southern Hills but withdrew after struggling to a 79 in the third round. He also missed the cut in July at the British Open at St. Andrews.

Love could understand why Woods would not want to test himself over the hilly North Carolina layout this week."It's not easy," Love said. "We're banging around in a cart and walking up and down hills. I get it." World number eight Will Zalatoris, who won his first PGA title last month at Memphis, is at Quail Hollow after being unable to compete for the Americans due to two herniated discs in his back that will sideline him for several months. "It's good to be here. It's good to be with the guys," Zalatoris said. "But it is bittersweet."

Tiger Woods, playing captain in a 2019 US victory, couldn't be an assistant at this week's Presidents Cup due to severe leg injuries suffered in a car crash last year.

Tiger Woods, playing captain in a 2019 US victory, couldn't be an assistant at this week's Presidents Cup due to severe leg injuries suffered in a car crash last year. But that doesn't mean the 15-time major champion isn't helping US captain Davis Love and the American staff against the Internationals at Quail Hollow. Love said Woods remains a key advisor even though it's from a distance. "We're including him, as usual," Love said. "He's having fun. He obviously misses it. I know he wishes he were here." Love called Woods during Thursday's opening matches while watching groups play the sixth hole. "We talked for a while," Love said. "I said, 'At least you're watching. You can call if you see anything.' ALSO READ | Americans take 4-1 lead on Internationals at Presidents Cup Woods made his comeback following the injuries at the Masters in April, 14 months after the auto accident in Southern California. He completed 72 holes over hilly Augusta National to finish 47th. Woods made the cut in May at the PGA Championship at Southern Hills but withdrew after struggling to a 79 in the third round. He also missed the cut in July at the British Open at St. Andrews. Love could understand why Woods would not want to test himself over the hilly North Carolina layout this week."It's not easy," Love said. "We're banging around in a cart and walking up and down hills. I get it." World number eight Will Zalatoris, who won his first PGA title last month at Memphis, is at Quail Hollow after being unable to compete for the Americans due to two herniated discs in his back that will sideline him for several months. "It's good to be here. It's good to be with the guys," Zalatoris said. "But it is bittersweet."

Presidents Cup: Injured Tiger Woods helps US cause from a distance

Justin Thomas and Cameron Young sank clutch putts and the United States blunted a back-nine fightback to lead the Internationals 4-1 after Thursday's opening Presidents Cup matches. The Americans dominated early then held on in foursomes (alternate shot) matches at Quail Hollow, stretching their Presidents Cup win streak in the format to 16 sessions since 2005.

Thomas sank a 27-foot par putt to win the crucial 15th hole to give him and Jordan Spieth a 2&amp;1 triumph over Corey Conners and Im Sung-jae. Young sank a 26-foot birdie putt to win the 17th as he and Collin Morikawa beat South Koreans Lee Kyoung-hoon and Kim Joo-hyung 2&amp;1.

"We had some matches that we played really solid and some that were really a grind," US captain Davis Love said. "A great start, a lot of heart." The Americans lead the all-time rivalry 11-1-1 and have never lost on home soil, having won the past eight consecutive Cups. Tokyo Olympic champion Xander Schauffele and 2021 PGA Tour playoffs winner Patrick Cantlay ripped Masters winners Hideki Matsuyama of Japan and Adam Scott of Australia 6&amp;5 in the opener. But the other matches were tight to the finish, with South Korean Kim Si-woo and Australian Cameron Davis winning the last four holes in a 2-up victory over top-ranked Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns.

"We hung in there. We got off to a tough start and were behind the 8-ball early," said Internationals captain Trevor Immelman. "We're going to have to find a way to make a few putts in the next few days. But we'll hang in there. That's what we do. We'll never quit." Max Homa and Tony Finau won 1-up over Canada's Taylor Pendrith and Chile's Mito Pereira after Pendrith missed a 10-foot par putt at 18. It took 99 minutes to crack par for the Internationals, who quickly fell behind in every match but grinded back. "We're going to learn a lot," said Canada's Conners. "I think we're going to be just as hungry to get back out there."

The Americans are huge favorites with 10 of the world's 16 top-ranked players to none for an International roster decimated by defections to the LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Series. World number four Schauffele and fifth-ranked Cantlay won the fifth through seventh holes with birdies for a 4-up lead and took the last three holes with pars.

"We felt like the wind was picking up so we told each other to ball-strike the heck out of this place and that's what we did," said Schauffele. Schauffele and Cantlay rose to 5-0 in foursomes at Ryder and Presidents Cup. They also won this year's PGA pairs event in New Orleans.

"We just feel really comfortable and confident playing together," Cantlay said. "To make no bogeys it was really good&nbsp;golf." Spieth and Thomas stayed unbeaten in Cup foursomes. They went 3-up after six but Im's 14-foot birdie putt to win the ninth trimmed it to 1-up. "It was a big grind," Spieth said.

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<h2>- 'Exactly what we needed' -</h2>

Thomas sank his clutch putt at 15, Quail Hollow's closing hole when he won the 2017 PGA Championship but moved this week to produce thrills. Thomas did, pumping his fist and screaming, "That's what I'm talking about," before two final tied holes sealed victory.

"It was huge," Thomas said. "It was great. It was exactly what we needed kind of thing." Young holed a 24-foot birdie putt to win the sixth but a Lee birdie at 12 tied the match. Morikawa's approach landed inches from the cup at 13 to set up a birdie to restore the US lead ahead of Young's winning putt. "It was awesome," Young said.

Reigning Masters champion Scheffler and Burns were 2-up after 14 but Kim Si-woo and Davis took the lead when Davis dropped his approach at 17 inside four feet and Kim sank the birdie putt, then won 18 when Scheffler missed a 12-footer for par. "We had a brutal first nine," Kim said. "We played nervously but we tried to fight back." Davis said of his heroics at 17: "It was the first time all day a shot come off like I wanted and it came at a perfect time."

Justin Thomas and Cameron Young sank clutch putts and the United States blunted a back-nine fightback to lead the Internationals 4-1 after Thursday's opening Presidents Cup matches.

Justin Thomas and Cameron Young sank clutch putts and the United States blunted a back-nine fightback to lead the Internationals 4-1 after Thursday's opening Presidents Cup matches. The Americans dominated early then held on in foursomes (alternate shot) matches at Quail Hollow, stretching their Presidents Cup win streak in the format to 16 sessions since 2005. Thomas sank a 27-foot par putt to win the crucial 15th hole to give him and Jordan Spieth a 2&1 triumph over Corey Conners and Im Sung-jae. Young sank a 26-foot birdie putt to win the 17th as he and Collin Morikawa beat South Koreans Lee Kyoung-hoon and Kim Joo-hyung 2&1. "We had some matches that we played really solid and some that were really a grind," US captain Davis Love said. "A great start, a lot of heart." The Americans lead the all-time rivalry 11-1-1 and have never lost on home soil, having won the past eight consecutive Cups. Tokyo Olympic champion Xander Schauffele and 2021 PGA Tour playoffs winner Patrick Cantlay ripped Masters winners Hideki Matsuyama of Japan and Adam Scott of Australia 6&5 in the opener. But the other matches were tight to the finish, with South Korean Kim Si-woo and Australian Cameron Davis winning the last four holes in a 2-up victory over top-ranked Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns. "We hung in there. We got off to a tough start and were behind the 8-ball early," said Internationals captain Trevor Immelman. "We're going to have to find a way to make a few putts in the next few days. But we'll hang in there. That's what we do. We'll never quit." Max Homa and Tony Finau won 1-up over Canada's Taylor Pendrith and Chile's Mito Pereira after Pendrith missed a 10-foot par putt at 18. It took 99 minutes to crack par for the Internationals, who quickly fell behind in every match but grinded back. "We're going to learn a lot," said Canada's Conners. "I think we're going to be just as hungry to get back out there." The Americans are huge favorites with 10 of the world's 16 top-ranked players to none for an International roster decimated by defections to the LIV Golf Series. World number four Schauffele and fifth-ranked Cantlay won the fifth through seventh holes with birdies for a 4-up lead and took the last three holes with pars. "We felt like the wind was picking up so we told each other to ball-strike the heck out of this place and that's what we did," said Schauffele. Schauffele and Cantlay rose to 5-0 in foursomes at Ryder and Presidents Cup. They also won this year's PGA pairs event in New Orleans. "We just feel really comfortable and confident playing together," Cantlay said. "To make no bogeys it was really good golf." Spieth and Thomas stayed unbeaten in Cup foursomes. They went 3-up after six but Im's 14-foot birdie putt to win the ninth trimmed it to 1-up. "It was a big grind," Spieth said. ALSO READ | Deeper resolve for global Presidents Cup side following LIV losses - 'Exactly what we needed' - Thomas sank his clutch putt at 15, Quail Hollow's closing hole when he won the 2017 PGA Championship but moved this week to produce thrills. Thomas did, pumping his fist and screaming, "That's what I'm talking about," before two final tied holes sealed victory. "It was huge," Thomas said. "It was great. It was exactly what we needed kind of thing." Young holed a 24-foot birdie putt to win the sixth but a Lee birdie at 12 tied the match. Morikawa's approach landed inches from the cup at 13 to set up a birdie to restore the US lead ahead of Young's winning putt. "It was awesome," Young said. Reigning Masters champion Scheffler and Burns were 2-up after 14 but Kim Si-woo and Davis took the lead when Davis dropped his approach at 17 inside four feet and Kim sank the birdie putt, then won 18 when Scheffler missed a 12-footer for par. "We had a brutal first nine," Kim said. "We played nervously but we tried to fight back." Davis said of his heroics at 17: "It was the first time all day a shot come off like I wanted and it came at a perfect time."

Americans take 4-1 lead on Internationals at Presidents Cup

Internationals captain Trevor Immelman says losing several top players to LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;has deepened the determination of the players who will compete against the United States at the Presidents Cup. Having worked with more than two dozen players over the past 18 months, Immelman hopes the lost talent might help create a tighter bond among the players who will tee off starting Thursday in the team showdown at Quail Hollow.

"Strengthened our team from a resolve standpoint," Immelman said. "The 12 that are here, they are the ones that remained loyal, stayed with our team, wanted to play in the Presidents Cup and those are the guys I want to fight with."

The Americans lead the all-time rivalry 11-1-1, having won eight in a row. Their only loss came at Melbourne in 1998. The Internationals were seen as a serious threat to win on US soil for the first time before losing several top players to the Saudi-backed LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Series.

British Open winner Cameron Smith, the world number three from Australia, Chile's Joaquin Niemann, South African Louis Oosthuizen, Mexico's Abraham Ancer and Aussie Marc Leishman were the top names who jumped to LIV, bringing indefinite bans from the PGA and banishment from Presidents Cup consideration. "There's a tension and strife in the game right now," US captain Davis Love said.

Immelman still has five top-30 players in past Masters champions Adam Scott and Hideki Matsuyama, South Korean stars Kim Joo-hyung and Im Sung-jae and Canada's Corey Conners. But the diminished global squad is seen as a severe underdog against a mighty US lineup with 12 of the world's 25 top-ranked players, 11 of them in the top 18.&nbsp;

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And that's with eighth-ranked Will Zalatoris injured and several US stars joining LIV, including Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, Patrick Reed and Bryson DeChambeau. "We're really happy with the 12 we've got," Love said. "There's no talk in our team room of anybody missing."

But&nbsp;golf&nbsp;fans will never know if a full Internationals lineup might have challenged the Americans. "We can't run from it," Immelman said. "It has been a real tough time. It was sad and disappointing to have to go through that. It has been tough to see. "All those players knew what the repercussions would be if they went over to the other tour. Everybody knew where they stood." Immelman said he got the bad news directly from players and was kept in the loop as they decided on LIV. "Am I disappointed they won't all be here? Absolutely," Immelman said. "Now we get to go up against a strong American team. we're looking forward."

Immelman said nothing came of talk to make his team an organization to allow LIV players, saying, "When you look under the hood... it's not really a viable option."

Camaraderie among best -

Immelman's plight had some sympathy from US star Justin Thomas, who won his second PGA Championship in May. "It's just an unfortunate situation for him. It's not fair," Thomas said. "It's tough. We didn't want it. He didn't want it. It's a bummer. "But he has put together a very strong team, camaraderie-wise one of the best they've had." Unifying talent from across the planet have been the achievement, Immelman said.

"You're blending seven or eight cultures and trying to get everybody in their sweet spot," he said. "It has been tricky and something we've worked really hard on over the last three or four years. "We're starting to get there slowly but surely, so now it's much more about how those two players can blend together and their games would then match up with the&nbsp;golf&nbsp;course."

Internationals captain Trevor Immelman says losing several top players to LIV Golf has deepened the determination of the players who will compete against the United States at the Presidents Cup.

Internationals captain Trevor Immelman says losing several top players to LIV Golf has deepened the determination of the players who will compete against the United States at the Presidents Cup. Having worked with more than two dozen players over the past 18 months, Immelman hopes the lost talent might help create a tighter bond among the players who will tee off starting Thursday in the team showdown at Quail Hollow. "Strengthened our team from a resolve standpoint," Immelman said. "The 12 that are here, they are the ones that remained loyal, stayed with our team, wanted to play in the Presidents Cup and those are the guys I want to fight with." The Americans lead the all-time rivalry 11-1-1, having won eight in a row. Their only loss came at Melbourne in 1998. The Internationals were seen as a serious threat to win on US soil for the first time before losing several top players to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Series. British Open winner Cameron Smith, the world number three from Australia, Chile's Joaquin Niemann, South African Louis Oosthuizen, Mexico's Abraham Ancer and Aussie Marc Leishman were the top names who jumped to LIV, bringing indefinite bans from the PGA and banishment from Presidents Cup consideration. "There's a tension and strife in the game right now," US captain Davis Love said. Immelman still has five top-30 players in past Masters champions Adam Scott and Hideki Matsuyama, South Korean stars Kim Joo-hyung and Im Sung-jae and Canada's Corey Conners. But the diminished global squad is seen as a severe underdog against a mighty US lineup with 12 of the world's 25 top-ranked players, 11 of them in the top 18. ALSO READ | 'Unfortunately, I cannot speak on that': Magnus Carlsen refuses to clarify cheating claims And that's with eighth-ranked Will Zalatoris injured and several US stars joining LIV, including Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, Patrick Reed and Bryson DeChambeau. "We're really happy with the 12 we've got," Love said. "There's no talk in our team room of anybody missing." But golf fans will never know if a full Internationals lineup might have challenged the Americans. "We can't run from it," Immelman said. "It has been a real tough time. It was sad and disappointing to have to go through that. It has been tough to see. "All those players knew what the repercussions would be if they went over to the other tour. Everybody knew where they stood." Immelman said he got the bad news directly from players and was kept in the loop as they decided on LIV. "Am I disappointed they won't all be here? Absolutely," Immelman said. "Now we get to go up against a strong American team. we're looking forward." Immelman said nothing came of talk to make his team an organization to allow LIV players, saying, "When you look under the hood... it's not really a viable option." Camaraderie among best - Immelman's plight had some sympathy from US star Justin Thomas, who won his second PGA Championship in May. "It's just an unfortunate situation for him. It's not fair," Thomas said. "It's tough. We didn't want it. He didn't want it. It's a bummer. "But he has put together a very strong team, camaraderie-wise one of the best they've had." Unifying talent from across the planet have been the achievement, Immelman said. "You're blending seven or eight cultures and trying to get everybody in their sweet spot," he said. "It has been tricky and something we've worked really hard on over the last three or four years. "We're starting to get there slowly but surely, so now it's much more about how those two players can blend together and their games would then match up with the golf course."

Deeper resolve for global Presidents Cup side following LIV losses

Saudi Arabia has never been part of the Presidents Cup, which every two years pits the best golfers from the United States against the best from the rest of world -- except Europe.

But this week at the Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit will be in the middle of the action, as the feud between it and the PGA Tour continues to escalate, impacting both teams.

The PGA Tour organises the Presidents Cup while LIV Golf, bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, has been busy poaching players, luring away some of golf's biggest names with staggering sums of money.

In retaliation the PGA Tour has suspended anyone jumping to the rebel circuit and the result is both sides will be missing key players when play gets underway on Thursday.

The U.S. will be without the services of LIV defectors and major winners Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka.

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LIV Golf's number one recruit six-time major champion Phil Mickelson, who has played in more Presidents Cups (12) and more matches (55) than anyone else, would likely not have made the squad on merit but almost certainly would have found a place in a non-playing role as an ambassador or co-captain.

Their absence will have minimal impact on a powerhouse American lineup that still includes three of the top five in the world rankings, led by number one Scottie Scheffler.

The 12-man International squad, however, cannot come close to matching the deep U.S. talent pool and the loss of world number three, Australian Cameron Smith, the Open and Players championship winner this year, is a huge blow to their hopes of lifting the Presidents Cup for just the second time.

South African Louis Oosthuizen, Chile's Joaquin Niemann and Mexico's Abraham Ancer are also unavailable to International captain Trevor Immelman, who has called up a record eight Presidents Cup debutants.

Australian Adam Scott, playing his 10th Presidents Cup and Japan's Hideki Matsuyama his fifth are the only members of the squad to have played in more than one event.

In 13 previous Presidents Cups the International team has just one victory, coming in 1998 when the event was staged in Australia.

Every other Presidents Cup has gone to the United States with the exception of 2003 in South Africa that ended in a draw.

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The last time the U.S. staged the event in 2017 at Liberty National they charged into a 14-3 1/2 lead going into the Sunday singles and coasted to a 19-11 victory.

Having home advantage once again and 40,000 boisterous fans backing them, there are fears that an inexperienced International team could be in for a humiliating thrashing at Quail Hollow.

"We'll be representing underdogs all over the world in every facet of life," conceded Immelman. "Whether it be business or sport or kids at school.

"We look forward to the Presidents Cup every time.

"Over the years you look at the history books, everybody knows we've had our butts kicked, but that doesn't mean we'll come with any less passion and compete to try and win."

Saudi Arabia has never been part of the Presidents Cup, which every two years pits the best golfers from the United States against the best from the rest of world -- except Europe.

Saudi Arabia has never been part of the Presidents Cup, which every two years pits the best golfers from the United States against the best from the rest of world -- except Europe. But this week at the Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit will be in the middle of the action, as the feud between it and the PGA Tour continues to escalate, impacting both teams. The PGA Tour organises the Presidents Cup while LIV Golf, bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, has been busy poaching players, luring away some of golf's biggest names with staggering sums of money. In retaliation the PGA Tour has suspended anyone jumping to the rebel circuit and the result is both sides will be missing key players when play gets underway on Thursday. The U.S. will be without the services of LIV defectors and major winners Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka. Also Read: Lithuania's Aleksandr Sorokin runs 319.6 km in 24 hours to set new world record LIV Golf's number one recruit six-time major champion Phil Mickelson, who has played in more Presidents Cups (12) and more matches (55) than anyone else, would likely not have made the squad on merit but almost certainly would have found a place in a non-playing role as an ambassador or co-captain. Their absence will have minimal impact on a powerhouse American lineup that still includes three of the top five in the world rankings, led by number one Scottie Scheffler. The 12-man International squad, however, cannot come close to matching the deep U.S. talent pool and the loss of world number three, Australian Cameron Smith, the Open and Players championship winner this year, is a huge blow to their hopes of lifting the Presidents Cup for just the second time. South African Louis Oosthuizen, Chile's Joaquin Niemann and Mexico's Abraham Ancer are also unavailable to International captain Trevor Immelman, who has called up a record eight Presidents Cup debutants. Australian Adam Scott, playing his 10th Presidents Cup and Japan's Hideki Matsuyama his fifth are the only members of the squad to have played in more than one event. In 13 previous Presidents Cups the International team has just one victory, coming in 1998 when the event was staged in Australia. Every other Presidents Cup has gone to the United States with the exception of 2003 in South Africa that ended in a draw. Also Read: Roger Federer doubtful to take part in farewell Laver Cup tournament, will make a last-minute decision The last time the U.S. staged the event in 2017 at Liberty National they charged into a 14-3 1/2 lead going into the Sunday singles and coasted to a 19-11 victory. Having home advantage once again and 40,000 boisterous fans backing them, there are fears that an inexperienced International team could be in for a humiliating thrashing at Quail Hollow. "We'll be representing underdogs all over the world in every facet of life," conceded Immelman. "Whether it be business or sport or kids at school. "We look forward to the Presidents Cup every time. "Over the years you look at the history books, everybody knows we've had our butts kicked, but that doesn't mean we'll come with any less passion and compete to try and win."

No LIV players but rebel circuit set to dominate Presidents Cup

LIV Golf CEO&nbsp;Greg&nbsp;Norman&nbsp;will meet with U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill this week to discuss the Saudi-backed circuit's ongoing dispute with the U.S.-based PGA Tour, the Washington Post reported on Monday. "LIV Golf is coming to the Hill this week to meet with lawmakers from both parties," a LIV spokesperson told the paper in a statement.

"Given the PGA Tour's attempts to stifle our progress in reimagining the game, we think it's imperative to educate members on LIV's business model and counter the Tour's anti-competitive efforts." LIV did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. It was not clear from the report which lawmakers the golf circuit would meet or whether they would include those from both the House and Senate.

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Critics say LIV Golf, which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, amounts to "sportswashing" by a nation trying to improve its reputation in the face of criticism over its human rights record. The PGA Tour has suspended players that have been lured away by the staggering sums of money the circuit has offered. LIV counts 12 major winners among its players and offers $25 million purses in no-cut 54-hole tournaments.

The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the PGA Tour for potential antitrust violations. LIV has also joined a federal antitrust lawsuit filed by some players over their suspensions.

LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman will meet with U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill this week to discuss the Saudi-backed circuit's ongoing dispute with the U.S.-based PGA Tour, the Washington Post reported on Monday.

LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman will meet with U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill this week to discuss the Saudi-backed circuit's ongoing dispute with the U.S.-based PGA Tour, the Washington Post reported on Monday. "LIV Golf is coming to the Hill this week to meet with lawmakers from both parties," a LIV spokesperson told the paper in a statement. "Given the PGA Tour's attempts to stifle our progress in reimagining the game, we think it's imperative to educate members on LIV's business model and counter the Tour's anti-competitive efforts." LIV did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. It was not clear from the report which lawmakers the golf circuit would meet or whether they would include those from both the House and Senate. ALSO READ | Magnus Carlsen resigns from rematch with Hans Niemann after just two moves Critics say LIV Golf, which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, amounts to "sportswashing" by a nation trying to improve its reputation in the face of criticism over its human rights record. The PGA Tour has suspended players that have been lured away by the staggering sums of money the circuit has offered. LIV counts 12 major winners among its players and offers $25 million purses in no-cut 54-hole tournaments. The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the PGA Tour for potential antitrust violations. LIV has also joined a federal antitrust lawsuit filed by some players over their suspensions.

LIV CEO Greg Norman to meet with lawmakers to discuss dispute with US-backed PGA Tour

Team events such as the Presidents Cup and Ryder Cup are only "hurting themselves" by banning players who signed up for LIV Golf, former U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau has said.

Players who joined the Saudi-backed LIV series are no longer eligible to participate in PGA Tour events, including the Presidents Cup and all other tours sanctioned by the circuit.

DeChambeau has played for the United States in the past in both the Ryder Cup and the Presidents Cup but he will be watching next week's Presidents Cup at Quail Hollow Club on television instead.

"I personally think that the team events are only hurting themselves by not allowing us to play, not allowing us to qualify through some capacity, in some facet," DeChambeau told reporters ahead of this week's LIV event in Chicago.

"I would say, from a team aspect, it is sad that those governing bodies have not allowed us to be able to qualify. That's all I can say to that. I want to play in numerous events on the PGA Tour. It would be awesome.

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"That's what LIV Golf has tried to -- they have allowed us to play on the PGA Tour. It's the PGA Tour barring us from doing so."

The lucrative LIV series, which counts 12 major winners among its players, offers $25 million purses in no-cut 54-hole tournaments.

But critics say LIV Golf, which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, amounts to "sportswashing" by a nation trying to improve its reputation in the face of criticism over its human rights record.

DeChambeau is one of the complainants in the antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour and though he would not comment on the lawsuit, he said he had "no buyer's remorse" over making the switch to LIV Golf.

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"This is the biggest decision besides choosing my agent that I've ever made in my entire life and I couldn't be more happy to be over here," he said.

"What LIV Golf has provided is something new and unique, different... there's going to be some disruption and people aren't going to like it. And I respect every single person that doesn't think it's good for the game of golf."

Team events such as the Presidents Cup and Ryder Cup are only "hurting themselves" by banning players who signed up for LIV Golf, former U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau has said.

Team events such as the Presidents Cup and Ryder Cup are only "hurting themselves" by banning players who signed up for LIV Golf, former U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau has said. Players who joined the Saudi-backed LIV series are no longer eligible to participate in PGA Tour events, including the Presidents Cup and all other tours sanctioned by the circuit. DeChambeau has played for the United States in the past in both the Ryder Cup and the Presidents Cup but he will be watching next week's Presidents Cup at Quail Hollow Club on television instead. "I personally think that the team events are only hurting themselves by not allowing us to play, not allowing us to qualify through some capacity, in some facet," DeChambeau told reporters ahead of this week's LIV event in Chicago. "I would say, from a team aspect, it is sad that those governing bodies have not allowed us to be able to qualify. That's all I can say to that. I want to play in numerous events on the PGA Tour. It would be awesome. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri "That's what LIV Golf has tried to -- they have allowed us to play on the PGA Tour. It's the PGA Tour barring us from doing so." The lucrative LIV series, which counts 12 major winners among its players, offers $25 million purses in no-cut 54-hole tournaments. But critics say LIV Golf, which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, amounts to "sportswashing" by a nation trying to improve its reputation in the face of criticism over its human rights record. DeChambeau is one of the complainants in the antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour and though he would not comment on the lawsuit, he said he had "no buyer's remorse" over making the switch to LIV Golf. Also Read: Paul Pogba's brother Mathias likely to be charged in extortion case against the Juventus star "This is the biggest decision besides choosing my agent that I've ever made in my entire life and I couldn't be more happy to be over here," he said. "What LIV Golf has provided is something new and unique, different... there's going to be some disruption and people aren't going to like it. And I respect every single person that doesn't think it's good for the game of golf."

Presidents Cup 'hurting themselves' by banning LIV Golf players, says Bryson DeChambeau

Carlos Alcaraz recently proved his mettle by laying claim to the US Open title by overcoming the challenge presented by&nbsp;Casper Ruud&nbsp;in his first major final at the Flushing Meadows.&nbsp;

However, it seems like he has joined some of the greatest players of our time in making his way to the golf greens, switching out his racquet with a golf club to work on his swing during his downtime. A short clip from his session on the greens was shared by the official Twitter handle of the PGA Tour.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-know-my-bodys-limits-roger-federer-announces-shock-retirement-after-laver-cup-516491" hreflang="en">'I know my body's limits'- Roger Federer announces shock retirement after Laver Cup</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The swing of a <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USOpen</a> champion.<a href="https://twitter.com/carlosalcaraz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CarlosAlcaraz</a> can do it all 🏌️ <a href="https://t.co/ecFEGZcCEq">pic.twitter.com/ecFEGZcCEq</a>
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) <a href="https://twitter.com/PGATOUR/status/1569377928386908163?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Most notably, it is his compatriot Rafael Nadal, who tends to participate in some casual golf. While the extent of Alcaraz's abilities with a golf club is still revealing itself, keeping his swing in mind, it seems like he will catch up with Nadal sooner rather than later.&nbsp;

Alcaraz is hot on the heels of the greatest achievement of his career. Having stormed into the final stage of the US Open, the teenage sensation laid claim to the coveted title by outclassing Ruud with the scoreboards reading&nbsp;6-4, 2-6, 7-6, 6-2.&nbsp;

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With his latest achievement, Alcaraz managed to etch his name in tennis folklore as the second youngest player to win the men's US Open title at&nbsp;19 years and 129 days old, coming in just behind Pete Sampras.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“This is something I have dreamt of since I was a kid, to be No 1 in the world, to be a champion of a Grand Slam. It is tough to talk right now. There are a lot of emotions right now.

"It is something I have tried to achieve. All the hard work I have done. I am just 19 years old so the top decisions are with my team and my parents. It is really special for me,” said Alcaraz in the aftermath of the action.

Carlos Alcaraz recently proved his mettle by laying claim to the US Open title by overcoming the challenge presented by Casper Ruud in his first major final at the Flushing Meadows.

Carlos Alcaraz recently proved his mettle by laying claim to the US Open title by overcoming the challenge presented by Casper Ruud in his first major final at the Flushing Meadows. However, it seems like he has joined some of the greatest players of our time in making his way to the golf greens, switching out his racquet with a golf club to work on his swing during his downtime. A short clip from his session on the greens was shared by the official Twitter handle of the PGA Tour. ALSO READ: 'I know my body's limits'- Roger Federer announces shock retirement after Laver Cup The swing of a @USOpen champion.@CarlosAlcaraz can do it all 🏌️ pic.twitter.com/ecFEGZcCEq — PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) September 12, 2022 × Most notably, it is his compatriot Rafael Nadal, who tends to participate in some casual golf. While the extent of Alcaraz's abilities with a golf club is still revealing itself, keeping his swing in mind, it seems like he will catch up with Nadal sooner rather than later. Alcaraz is hot on the heels of the greatest achievement of his career. Having stormed into the final stage of the US Open, the teenage sensation laid claim to the coveted title by outclassing Ruud with the scoreboards reading 6-4, 2-6, 7-6, 6-2. ALSO READ: Twitter reacts to Roger Federer calling time on an illustrious career, wishes pour in With his latest achievement, Alcaraz managed to etch his name in tennis folklore as the second youngest player to win the men's US Open title at 19 years and 129 days old, coming in just behind Pete Sampras. “This is something I have dreamt of since I was a kid, to be No 1 in the world, to be a champion of a Grand Slam. It is tough to talk right now. There are a lot of emotions right now. "It is something I have tried to achieve. All the hard work I have done. I am just 19 years old so the top decisions are with my team and my parents. It is really special for me,” said Alcaraz in the aftermath of the action.

Watch: US Open kingpin Carlos Alcaraz branches out to golf, shows off his stroke on the greens

LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;chief Greg Norman Wednesday warned the world&nbsp;rankings&nbsp;risk&nbsp;becoming a "laughing stock" if they refuse to award points to players from the Saudi-backed breakaway circuit. The issue of LIV&nbsp;Golf's events being recognised by the Official World&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Ranking (OWGR) system could be pivotal to its future.&nbsp;

If players can earn&nbsp;rankings&nbsp;points from LIV events, it becomes easier to qualify for the sport's four majors. "It makes OWGR look obsolete if they don't (accept LIV)," Norman told The Age newspaper in Melbourne.&nbsp; "If they wake up at the end of the year and Dustin Johnson is 102 in the world, is that not a laughing stock to the OWGR?&nbsp;"There's two ways they can go: they can either fold, or they include LIV into OWGR. We'll move on. Everyone's happy after that."

The emergence of LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;this year has plunged the sport into turmoil, with a host of top players from the PGA Tour opting to switch to a series that offers some of the richest purses in history. The new circuit has been accused of "sportswashing" Saudi Arabia's human rights record, backed by the almost unlimited resources of the kingdom's sovereign wealth Public Investment Fund.

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The PGA Tour has adopted a zero-tolerance stance towards the series -- which plays no-cut tournaments over three days and includes a team competition -- with those defecting being suspended. Norman urged the custodians of the major tournaments to let LIV players take part, despite the PGA Tour's stance.

"They (PGA Tour) have no right to tell each of those majors what to do. They're independent organisations. Yes, certain members sit on their board. I get it and I understand that," he said. "(But) if you were a broadcaster you would be questioning the value of your investment for television if you don't have the strongest field in each and every one of them. I hope they stay (neutral like) Switzerland."

The highest profile golfer to make the switch so far was Norman's fellow Australian Cameron Smith, the British Open champion, who was world number two when he made the move this month. He will join other major winners such as Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Bryson DeChambeau and Sergio Garcia in leading one of the 12 Liv&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;four-player teams in 2023.

LIV Golf chief Greg Norman Wednesday warned the world rankings risk becoming a "laughing stock" if they refuse to award points to players from the Saudi-backed breakaway circuit.

LIV Golf chief Greg Norman Wednesday warned the world rankings risk becoming a "laughing stock" if they refuse to award points to players from the Saudi-backed breakaway circuit. The issue of LIV Golf's events being recognised by the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) system could be pivotal to its future. If players can earn rankings points from LIV events, it becomes easier to qualify for the sport's four majors. "It makes OWGR look obsolete if they don't (accept LIV)," Norman told The Age newspaper in Melbourne. "If they wake up at the end of the year and Dustin Johnson is 102 in the world, is that not a laughing stock to the OWGR? "There's two ways they can go: they can either fold, or they include LIV into OWGR. We'll move on. Everyone's happy after that." The emergence of LIV Golf this year has plunged the sport into turmoil, with a host of top players from the PGA Tour opting to switch to a series that offers some of the richest purses in history. The new circuit has been accused of "sportswashing" Saudi Arabia's human rights record, backed by the almost unlimited resources of the kingdom's sovereign wealth Public Investment Fund. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri The PGA Tour has adopted a zero-tolerance stance towards the series -- which plays no-cut tournaments over three days and includes a team competition -- with those defecting being suspended. Norman urged the custodians of the major tournaments to let LIV players take part, despite the PGA Tour's stance. "They (PGA Tour) have no right to tell each of those majors what to do. They're independent organisations. Yes, certain members sit on their board. I get it and I understand that," he said. "(But) if you were a broadcaster you would be questioning the value of your investment for television if you don't have the strongest field in each and every one of them. I hope they stay (neutral like) Switzerland." The highest profile golfer to make the switch so far was Norman's fellow Australian Cameron Smith, the British Open champion, who was world number two when he made the move this month. He will join other major winners such as Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Bryson DeChambeau and Sergio Garcia in leading one of the 12 Liv Golf four-player teams in 2023.

Golf rankings risk being 'laughing stock' if LIV excluded, says Greg Norman

Dustin&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;is the money leader halfway through the first season of the LIV Golf Series, earning $7.7 million through just four individual events. Tack on the money he's made in team play, and his winnings stand at nearly $10 million, Golfweek reported Tuesday.

Johnson&nbsp;won the fourth of LIV's eight 2022 events in a playoff on Sunday, taking the $4 million first prize at the tournament near Boston.

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In all, 24 players have claimed at least $1 million in individual earnings through the first four events. That doesn't include income from the signing bonuses -- nine figures, in some cases -- given to players by the controversial Saudi-backed tour.

Other players joining&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;with at least $4 million in winnings are South Africans Branden Grace ($6 million) and Charl Schwartzel ($4.5 million), and Henrik Stenson of Sweden ($4 million).

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Johnson&nbsp;played his first of 307 events on the PGA Tour in 2007. His career tour earnings are just shy of $75 million. LIV play resumes Sept. 16-18 at the LIV Golf Invitational Chicago at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove, Ill.

Dustin Johnson is the money leader halfway through the first season of the LIV Golf Series, earning $7.7 million through just four individual events. Tack on the money he's made in team play, and his winnings stand at nearly $10 million, Golfweek reported Tuesday.

Dustin Johnson is the money leader halfway through the first season of the LIV Golf Series, earning $7.7 million through just four individual events. Tack on the money he's made in team play, and his winnings stand at nearly $10 million, Golfweek reported Tuesday. Johnson won the fourth of LIV's eight 2022 events in a playoff on Sunday, taking the $4 million first prize at the tournament near Boston. ALSO READ: Nick Kyrgios handed shock upset by Karen Khachanov at the cusp of US Open semi-finals In all, 24 players have claimed at least $1 million in individual earnings through the first four events. That doesn't include income from the signing bonuses -- nine figures, in some cases -- given to players by the controversial Saudi-backed tour. Other players joining Johnson with at least $4 million in winnings are South Africans Branden Grace ($6 million) and Charl Schwartzel ($4.5 million), and Henrik Stenson of Sweden ($4 million). ALSO READ: French green party propose a 'PSG Bill' to limit the use of private planes in France: Report Johnson played his first of 307 events on the PGA Tour in 2007. His career tour earnings are just shy of $75 million. LIV play resumes Sept. 16-18 at the LIV Golf Invitational Chicago at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove, Ill.

Dustin Johnson breaks bank as he racks up nearly $10 million across multiple events in LIV Golf Series

British Open champion Cameron Smith, who joined the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Series last week, has been nominated for the PGA Tour's Player of the Year award along with Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy.

The 29-year-old Australian won his first major at St Andrews in July and also claimed the Players Championship and rose to world number two, before becoming the highest-ranked player to switch to LIV Golf.

The U.S.-based PGA Tour, which has seen high-profile players like Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau make the move to LIV Golf, has previously said any members who compete on the rival circuit will be suspended indefinitely.

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World number three McIlroy, one of LIV's most outspoken critics, is a three-time winner of the PGA Tour award and also became the first player to win the FedEx Cup three times after his thrilling victory over world number one Scheffler at the season-ending Tour Championship.

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American Scheffler won three tournaments this season before clinching his first major title at the Masters and finished runner-up at the U.S. Open.

The winner of the award will be determined by a vote of Tour members who played in at least 15 FedEx Cup events during the season. Voting will close on Friday, with the winners to be announced at a later date.

British Open champion Cameron Smith, who joined the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Series last week, has been nominated for the PGA Tour's Player of the Year award along with Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy.

British Open champion Cameron Smith, who joined the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Series last week, has been nominated for the PGA Tour's Player of the Year award along with Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy. The 29-year-old Australian won his first major at St Andrews in July and also claimed the Players Championship and rose to world number two, before becoming the highest-ranked player to switch to LIV Golf. The U.S.-based PGA Tour, which has seen high-profile players like Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau make the move to LIV Golf, has previously said any members who compete on the rival circuit will be suspended indefinitely. Also Read: Exclusive: India's Anirban Lahiri opens up on Liv Golf move World number three McIlroy, one of LIV's most outspoken critics, is a three-time winner of the PGA Tour award and also became the first player to win the FedEx Cup three times after his thrilling victory over world number one Scheffler at the season-ending Tour Championship. Also Read: Dustin Johnson makes eagle putt to win LIV Golf Boston event in playoff American Scheffler won three tournaments this season before clinching his first major title at the Masters and finished runner-up at the U.S. Open. The winner of the award will be determined by a vote of Tour members who played in at least 15 FedEx Cup events during the season. Voting will close on Friday, with the winners to be announced at a later date.

LIV Golf recruit Cameron Smith among nominees for PGA Tour Player of the Year award

Dustin Johnson gave LIV Golf its first big moment when he made a 35-foot eagle putt on the first hole of a sudden-death playoff to win the LIV Golf Invitational-Boston for his first victory in 19 months.

Johnson's putt on the par-5 18th was going so fast it might have rolled some 6 feet past the hole on Sunday. But it hit the back of the cup and dropped down near the front of the cup to beat Joaquin Niemann and Anirban Lahiri.

He raised his arm and dropped it for a slow-motion uppercut, instead slapping hands with Austin Johnson, his brother and caddie. The win was worth USD 4 million for Johnson. With his team winning again, he now has made USD 9,962,500 in four events.

"It was going a little fast, but it was a good line," Johnson said with a big smile. "I got some unlucky breaks (on No. 18) the first time around. It owed me one and I got it."

The first playoff in four LIV Golf events capped an otherwise sloppy finish by so many others who had a chance. 
Johnson, who closed with a 5-under 65, needed a birdie on the par-5 18th. His drive bounced into the right rough, his iron to lay up went into the trees well to the left and he had to scramble for par to join Lahiri (64) and Niemann (66) at 15-under 265.

Lahiri hit a fairway metal to 5 feet on the 18th in regulation, and his eagle putt that would have won it rolled around the right edge of the cup.

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Lee Westwood finished one shot out of a playoff after a 62 that included bogeys on two of his last three holes. He was poised to win when he bounced back from a bogey on No. 1 in the shotgun start with a short birdie on the par-3 second.

He finished on No. 3, a 352-yard hole and great birdie opportunity. Westwood hit a lob wedge that was so fat it came up some 40 feet short of the pin and into a bunker. He blasted out weakly and missed the 18-foot par putt.

"The lob wedge was a little fat," Westwood said.

"Make 3 and I win the tournament and I make 5. It's a sickening way to finish."

British Open champion Cameron Smith, among six players who recently signed with the Saudi-funded league, had a 63. He also was tied for the lead until hitting his tee shot into the trees on No. 1, his 17th hole, and having to pitch out sideways. He made bogey.

Smith tied for fourth with Westwood. Each made just over USD 1 million. Johnson had not won since the Saudi International on Feb. 7, 2021, when it was part of the European tour schedule. The player who has been No. 1 longer than anyone since Tiger Woods slipped out of the top 15 in the world when he signed with LIV Golf.

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He was part of the rival league from the start in early June outside London, and he has finished in the top 10 in all of them.

"I've had a chance to win every one," he said.

"That's three in a row for the team, and for me to get my first, I'm feeling good."

He walked off the 18th green holding a phone in a video call to his two sons. Lahiri and Niemann each made just over $1.8 million for losing in the playoff. They were among six players who signed with LIV Golf after the PGA Tour season end.

The next LIV Golf Invitational series is in two weeks in the Chicago suburbs at Rich Harvest Farms, best known for hosting the Solheim Cup in 2009.

Dustin Johnson gave LIV Golf its first big moment when he made a 35-foot eagle putt on the first hole of a sudden-death playoff to win the LIV Golf Invitational-Boston for his first victory in 19 months.

Dustin Johnson gave LIV Golf its first big moment when he made a 35-foot eagle putt on the first hole of a sudden-death playoff to win the LIV Golf Invitational-Boston for his first victory in 19 months. Johnson's putt on the par-5 18th was going so fast it might have rolled some 6 feet past the hole on Sunday. But it hit the back of the cup and dropped down near the front of the cup to beat Joaquin Niemann and Anirban Lahiri. He raised his arm and dropped it for a slow-motion uppercut, instead slapping hands with Austin Johnson, his brother and caddie. The win was worth USD 4 million for Johnson. With his team winning again, he now has made USD 9,962,500 in four events. "It was going a little fast, but it was a good line," Johnson said with a big smile. "I got some unlucky breaks (on No. 18) the first time around. It owed me one and I got it." The first playoff in four LIV Golf events capped an otherwise sloppy finish by so many others who had a chance. Johnson, who closed with a 5-under 65, needed a birdie on the par-5 18th. His drive bounced into the right rough, his iron to lay up went into the trees well to the left and he had to scramble for par to join Lahiri (64) and Niemann (66) at 15-under 265. Lahiri hit a fairway metal to 5 feet on the 18th in regulation, and his eagle putt that would have won it rolled around the right edge of the cup. Also Read: Exclusive! India's Anirban Lahiri opens up on Liv Golf move Lee Westwood finished one shot out of a playoff after a 62 that included bogeys on two of his last three holes. He was poised to win when he bounced back from a bogey on No. 1 in the shotgun start with a short birdie on the par-3 second. He finished on No. 3, a 352-yard hole and great birdie opportunity. Westwood hit a lob wedge that was so fat it came up some 40 feet short of the pin and into a bunker. He blasted out weakly and missed the 18-foot par putt. "The lob wedge was a little fat," Westwood said. "Make 3 and I win the tournament and I make 5. It's a sickening way to finish." British Open champion Cameron Smith, among six players who recently signed with the Saudi-funded league, had a 63. He also was tied for the lead until hitting his tee shot into the trees on No. 1, his 17th hole, and having to pitch out sideways. He made bogey. Smith tied for fourth with Westwood. Each made just over USD 1 million. Johnson had not won since the Saudi International on Feb. 7, 2021, when it was part of the European tour schedule. The player who has been No. 1 longer than anyone since Tiger Woods slipped out of the top 15 in the world when he signed with LIV Golf. Also Read: LIV Golf Series - India's Anirban Lahiri moves into fourth place He was part of the rival league from the start in early June outside London, and he has finished in the top 10 in all of them. "I've had a chance to win every one," he said. "That's three in a row for the team, and for me to get my first, I'm feeling good." He walked off the 18th green holding a phone in a video call to his two sons. Lahiri and Niemann each made just over $1.8 million for losing in the playoff. They were among six players who signed with LIV Golf after the PGA Tour season end. The next LIV Golf Invitational series is in two weeks in the Chicago suburbs at Rich Harvest Farms, best known for hosting the Solheim Cup in 2009.

Dustin Johnson makes eagle putt to win LIV Golf Boston event in playoff

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.

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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.

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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

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