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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Greg Norman's LIV Golf continues to make heads turn.&nbsp;So far, Norman has roped in a plethora of high-profile players from the United States' PGA Tour such as Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau. However, he was yet to include a player from the world's top 10. There had been speculations of World number two Cameron Smith becoming a part of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series. Now, the&nbsp;LIV Golf circuit has achieved its biggest deal by signing Smith and&nbsp;Australia's&nbsp;Marc Leishman.

Sources have told&nbsp;The Age&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Herald&nbsp;that an official announcement regarding the signing of Smith and Leishman is set to take place soon. Thus, the duo&nbsp;will join two-time Australian Open champion Matt Jones in defecting to LIV Golf, which has sent employees to Australia in recent weeks to look at potential venues for a tournament Down Under in the next calendar year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liv-golf-joins-anti-trust-lawsuit-against-pga-tour-alleges-torturous-interference-510862">LIV Golf joins anti-trust lawsuit against PGA Tour, alleges 'torturous interference'</a>

Talking about The Open champion Smith, the 29-year-old&nbsp;will be announced as the highest-ranked player to join the controversial LIV Golf. Ahead of the British Open winner Smith's signing, FedEx Cup champion and four-time major winner Rory McIlroy had opined on the LIV Golf and made a strong claim.&nbsp;

As per a report in Fox Sports, the 33-year-old had slammed LIV Golf and stated, “If you believe in something I think you have to speak up, and I believe very strongly about this. I really do.&nbsp;I hate what it’s doing to the game of golf. I hate it. I really do. Like it’s going to be hard for me to stomach going to Wentworth in a couple of weeks’ time and seeing 18 of them there. That just doesn’t sit right with me." He added, "I believe what I‘m saying are the right things, and I think when you believe that what you’re saying is the right things, you’re happy to stick your neck out on the line."

On the other hand, Tiger Woods also reportedly rejected LIV's offer to feature in the event and said at The Open Championship last month, "I know what the PGA Tour stands for and what we have done and what the Tour has given us, the ability to chase after our careers and to earn what we get and the trophies we have been able to play for and the history that has been a part of this game. I know Greg tried to do this back in the early ’90s. It didn’t work then, and he’s trying to make it work now. I still don’t see how that’s in the best interests of the game."

Despite the heavy criticism against Norman's LIV Golf, it is continuing to attract some big players from PGA Tour's roster. Smith's signing is surely a big step in the right direction for the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit.&nbsp;

Greg Norman's LIV Golf continues to make heads turn. So far, Norman has roped in a plethora of high-profile players from the United States' PGA Tour such as Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau.

Greg Norman's LIV Golf continues to make heads turn. So far, Norman has roped in a plethora of high-profile players from the United States' PGA Tour such as Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau. However, he was yet to include a player from the world's top 10. There had been speculations of World number two Cameron Smith becoming a part of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series. Now, the LIV Golf circuit has achieved its biggest deal by signing Smith and Australia's Marc Leishman. Sources have told The Age and the Herald that an official announcement regarding the signing of Smith and Leishman is set to take place soon. Thus, the duo will join two-time Australian Open champion Matt Jones in defecting to LIV Golf, which has sent employees to Australia in recent weeks to look at potential venues for a tournament Down Under in the next calendar year. ALSO READ | LIV Golf joins anti-trust lawsuit against PGA Tour, alleges 'torturous interference' Talking about The Open champion Smith, the 29-year-old will be announced as the highest-ranked player to join the controversial LIV Golf. Ahead of the British Open winner Smith's signing, FedEx Cup champion and four-time major winner Rory McIlroy had opined on the LIV Golf and made a strong claim. As per a report in Fox Sports, the 33-year-old had slammed LIV Golf and stated, “If you believe in something I think you have to speak up, and I believe very strongly about this. I really do. I hate what it’s doing to the game of golf. I hate it. I really do. Like it’s going to be hard for me to stomach going to Wentworth in a couple of weeks’ time and seeing 18 of them there. That just doesn’t sit right with me." He added, "I believe what I‘m saying are the right things, and I think when you believe that what you’re saying is the right things, you’re happy to stick your neck out on the line." On the other hand, Tiger Woods also reportedly rejected LIV's offer to feature in the event and said at The Open Championship last month, "I know what the PGA Tour stands for and what we have done and what the Tour has given us, the ability to chase after our careers and to earn what we get and the trophies we have been able to play for and the history that has been a part of this game. I know Greg tried to do this back in the early ’90s. It didn’t work then, and he’s trying to make it work now. I still don’t see how that’s in the best interests of the game." Despite the heavy criticism against Norman's LIV Golf, it is continuing to attract some big players from PGA Tour's roster. Smith's signing is surely a big step in the right direction for the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit.

World No. 2 Cameron Smith and Marc Leishman join Greg Norman’s LIV Golf

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

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

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

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

LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;has joined a handful of its players in their antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour, according to an amended complaint that showed four&nbsp;golfers have now removed their names.

Phil Mickelson and 10 other&nbsp;golfers sued the PGA Tour in early August over its decision to suspend them for playing on the new Saudi Arabia-backed&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;circuit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pga-tour-chief-bolsters-prizes-for-competitors-as-rivalry-with-liv-golf-heats-up-510068" hreflang="en">PGA Tour raises prize money, benefits for players as rivalry with LIV Golf heats up</a>

According to the amended complaint filed on Friday in San Jose, California federal court,&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;is seeking "punitive damages against the PGA Tour for its tortuous interference with&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf's prospective business relationships."

The lucrative&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;series is being bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, which critics say is a vehicle for the country to improve its image in the face of criticism of its human rights record.

Three players still on the lawsuit - Talor Gooch, Matt Jones and Hudson Swafford - had sought a temporary restraining order that would have allowed them to compete in the PGA Tour's playoffs but their request was denied.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-and-rory-mcilroy-spearhead-joint-charge-against-liv-golf-as-they-launch-tech-focused-firm-509808" hreflang="en">Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy spearhead joint charge against LIV Golf, launch tech-focused firm</a>

The amended filing showed that both Abraham Ancer and Jason Kokrak had dropped out of the complaint, while Carlos Ortiz and Pat Perez had removed their names in recent weeks.

The remaining players in the complaint are Phil Mickelson, Bryson DeChambeau, Ian Poulter, Peter Uihlein, Gooch, Swafford and Jones.

LIV Golf has joined a handful of its players in their antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour, according to an amended complaint that showed four golfers have now removed their names.

LIV Golf has joined a handful of its players in their antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour, according to an amended complaint that showed four golfers have now removed their names. Phil Mickelson and 10 other golfers sued the PGA Tour in early August over its decision to suspend them for playing on the new Saudi Arabia-backed LIV Golf circuit. ALSO READ: PGA Tour raises prize money, benefits for players as rivalry with LIV Golf heats up According to the amended complaint filed on Friday in San Jose, California federal court, LIV Golf is seeking "punitive damages against the PGA Tour for its tortuous interference with LIV Golf's prospective business relationships." The lucrative LIV Golf series is being bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, which critics say is a vehicle for the country to improve its image in the face of criticism of its human rights record. Three players still on the lawsuit - Talor Gooch, Matt Jones and Hudson Swafford - had sought a temporary restraining order that would have allowed them to compete in the PGA Tour's playoffs but their request was denied. ALSO READ: Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy spearhead joint charge against LIV Golf, launch tech-focused firm The amended filing showed that both Abraham Ancer and Jason Kokrak had dropped out of the complaint, while Carlos Ortiz and Pat Perez had removed their names in recent weeks. The remaining players in the complaint are Phil Mickelson, Bryson DeChambeau, Ian Poulter, Peter Uihlein, Gooch, Swafford and Jones.

LIV Golf joins anti-trust lawsuit against PGA Tour, alleges 'torturous interference'

With the threat of a hostile takeover from the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series hanging heavy over their shoulders, the PGA Tour chief Jay Monahan has announced some extremely lucrative prizes for winners and competitors participating in the tournament.

The primary goal of these changes is to induce loyalty towards the tour from players and prevent them from jumping ship to join the ranks of the LIV Golf series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-and-rory-mcilroy-spearhead-joint-charge-against-liv-golf-as-they-launch-tech-focused-firm-509808" hreflang="en">Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy spearhead joint charge against LIV Golf, launch tech-focused firm</a>

The tour promised to introduce four elevated events, each offering purses of&nbsp;at least $20 million. In addition, the tour vowed to increase the guaranteed minimum earnings for full members and double up the money that is retained in the bonus pool.

With the new developments in place, top players may earn the opportunity to compete in up to 20 events in a&nbsp;calendar year.

“Our top players are firmly behind the TOUR, helping us deliver an unmatched product to our fans, who will be all but guaranteed to see the best players competing against each other in 20 events or more throughout the season,” said PGA Chief Jay Monahan while discussing the changes being introduced.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-time-wimbledon-winner-petra-kvitova-announces-engagement-to-coach-shares-tweet-510047" hreflang="en">Two-time Wimbledon winner Petra Kvitova announces engagement to coach, shares tweet</a>

As part of the changes, the graduates of the&nbsp;developmental Korn Ferry Tour and over will be guaranteed a&nbsp;$500,000 minimum takeaway. The total bonus pool, on the other hand, will double up to&nbsp;$100 million.

It is interesting to note that eleven golfers affiliated with the breakaway league&nbsp;filed an antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour, challenging the restrictive measures that were introduced to penalize them.&nbsp;They also alleged that the association is interfering with the possibility of LIV Golf competing with the Tour fairly.

With the threat of a hostile takeover from the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series hanging heavy over their shoulders, the PGA Tour chief Jay Monahan has announced some extremely lucrative prizes for winners and competitors participating in the tournament.

With the threat of a hostile takeover from the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series hanging heavy over their shoulders, the PGA Tour chief Jay Monahan has announced some extremely lucrative prizes for winners and competitors participating in the tournament. The primary goal of these changes is to induce loyalty towards the tour from players and prevent them from jumping ship to join the ranks of the LIV Golf series. ALSO READ: Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy spearhead joint charge against LIV Golf, launch tech-focused firm The tour promised to introduce four elevated events, each offering purses of at least $20 million. In addition, the tour vowed to increase the guaranteed minimum earnings for full members and double up the money that is retained in the bonus pool. With the new developments in place, top players may earn the opportunity to compete in up to 20 events in a calendar year. “Our top players are firmly behind the TOUR, helping us deliver an unmatched product to our fans, who will be all but guaranteed to see the best players competing against each other in 20 events or more throughout the season,” said PGA Chief Jay Monahan while discussing the changes being introduced. ALSO READ: Two-time Wimbledon winner Petra Kvitova announces engagement to coach, shares tweet As part of the changes, the graduates of the developmental Korn Ferry Tour and over will be guaranteed a $500,000 minimum takeaway. The total bonus pool, on the other hand, will double up to $100 million. It is interesting to note that eleven golfers affiliated with the breakaway league filed an antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour, challenging the restrictive measures that were introduced to penalize them. They also alleged that the association is interfering with the possibility of LIV Golf competing with the Tour fairly.

PGA Tour raises prize money, benefits for players as rivalry with LIV Golf heats up

In their latest move against the rival breakaway series LIV Golf, Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have jointly launched a new startup, TMRW Sports, which will aim to use technology to pave&nbsp;the way for arena and stadium-centric golf events to attract new eyes to the sport and cultivate a younger audience.

Pronounced tomorrow sports, the company will promote&nbsp;“progressive approaches to sports, media, and entertainment”, said a press release put out by the company.

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McIlroy's&nbsp;Symphony Ventures and Woods' TGR Ventures are believed to be the first set of investors in the startup. The company aims to bring the world's best golfers together to compete in a stadium-based skills competition series.

"So many athletes, entertainers, and people I meet from all walks of life share our passion for sports, but they also share our desire to build a better future for the next generation of sports fans,"&nbsp;said Woods in&nbsp;the&nbsp;press release.

It is said to be partnering with the PGA Tour in some capacity as each one-day contest would be designed to complement the existing PGA schedule. It is expected to be launched as early as 2024. The event will most likely take place during the months of January through March.

"By joining forces with Tiger, Mike, and other TMRW Sports partners, we can shape the way that media and technology improve the sports experience,"&nbsp;said&nbsp;McIlroy.&nbsp;

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The deep-pocketed Saudi breakaway league, LIV Golf, has successfully lured away a myriad of the PGA Tour's stars, including&nbsp;Dustin Johnson,&nbsp;Bryson DeChambeau, Phil Mickelson, and Brooks Koepka.

However, the likes of Woods and McIlroy have held strong against the advances of LIV Golf, reportedly turning down a whopping&nbsp;$800million offer to join the ranks of the breakaway league. Some of the biggest stars who frequently feature on the PGA Tour convened in Delaware to discuss their prospects in the battle against the Saudi-backed league.

Solutions included coming out with&nbsp;18 no-cut tournaments, featuring about 60 players, going head to head against each other with purses worth&nbsp;$20 million hanging in the balance. It is interesting to note that LIV Golf offers&nbsp;$25 million purses.

In their latest move against the rival breakaway series LIV Golf, Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have jointly launched a new startup, TMRW Sports, which will aim to use technology to pave the way for arena and stadium-centric golf events to attract new eyes to the sport and cultivate a younger audience.

In their latest move against the rival breakaway series LIV Golf, Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have jointly launched a new startup, TMRW Sports, which will aim to use technology to pave the way for arena and stadium-centric golf events to attract new eyes to the sport and cultivate a younger audience. Pronounced tomorrow sports, the company will promote “progressive approaches to sports, media, and entertainment”, said a press release put out by the company. ALSO READ: 'How many stories do you have?': Man City's Benjamin Mendy asked police after being arrested for rape McIlroy's Symphony Ventures and Woods' TGR Ventures are believed to be the first set of investors in the startup. The company aims to bring the world's best golfers together to compete in a stadium-based skills competition series. "So many athletes, entertainers, and people I meet from all walks of life share our passion for sports, but they also share our desire to build a better future for the next generation of sports fans," said Woods in the press release. It is said to be partnering with the PGA Tour in some capacity as each one-day contest would be designed to complement the existing PGA schedule. It is expected to be launched as early as 2024. The event will most likely take place during the months of January through March. "By joining forces with Tiger, Mike, and other TMRW Sports partners, we can shape the way that media and technology improve the sports experience," said McIlroy. ALSO READ: 'Don't leave you sh** bas***d': Real Madrid star Valverde's girlfriend to Casemiro ahead of Man Utd move The deep-pocketed Saudi breakaway league, LIV Golf, has successfully lured away a myriad of the PGA Tour's stars, including Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, Phil Mickelson, and Brooks Koepka. However, the likes of Woods and McIlroy have held strong against the advances of LIV Golf, reportedly turning down a whopping $800million offer to join the ranks of the breakaway league. Some of the biggest stars who frequently feature on the PGA Tour convened in Delaware to discuss their prospects in the battle against the Saudi-backed league. Solutions included coming out with 18 no-cut tournaments, featuring about 60 players, going head to head against each other with purses worth $20 million hanging in the balance. It is interesting to note that LIV Golf offers $25 million purses.

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy spearhead joint charge against LIV Golf, launch tech-focused firm

"I just don't understand it," golf legend Tiger Woods had said on the format of the breakaway LIV Golf Series while tearing into the players who turned their back on the PGA Tour to join the Saudi-backed rival league. Woods has since been quite vocal on why he is completely against the idea of nurturing a breakaway league while reaffirming his commitment to the PGA Tour.

LIV Golf is funded by the Public Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia. The breakaway league claims it has huge ambitions and the major objective remains to improve professional golf. However, it has been widely criticised by several professional golfers and human rights groups who are opposed to Saudi Arabia's history of oppression and violence.

Woods, one of the icons of the game, seems to have assumed a leadership role in leading PGA Tour's fight against LIV Golf Series. Woods had recently attended a meeting with some of the top golfers from the PGA Tour to discuss the strategy to combat the threat of the breakaway series.

Woods jetted off from his home in Florida last week to Philadelphia where he along with Rickie Fowler met the big names of the PGA Tour, including the likes of Justin Thomas, Rory Mcilroy and others. Details of the meeting have since surfaced and Woods' efforts in saving the PGA Tour's grace in the wake of the huge battle have impressed many, who believe the American legend&nbsp;has gained the status of the Tour's virtual commissioner.

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PGA Tour commissioner&nbsp;Jay Monahan and other administrators were not part of the meeting which was reportedly a hush-hush affair. Woods met with at least 15 players during the meeting and the option of a tour within a tour with 18 not-cut tournaments featuring top 60 players with a no-cut format was discussed.

The idea of sitting at the table with LIV Golf was also reportedly debated during the meeting along with the proposal of a shake-up of the PGA Tour's financial model. There have been suggestions to rescind the Tour's non-profit model which can bring in significant investments allowing them to compete with the riches of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League.

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Tiger Woods rejected a big money&nbsp;offer from LIV Golf to support PGA Tour:

15-time major winner Woods was offered around 700-800 million dollars by the Saudi-backed LIV League but the golf&nbsp;legend rejected any advances to remain committed to the PGA Tour. Former professional golfer and the&nbsp;LIV Golf commissioner, Greg Norman had confirmed Woods was presented with an exorbitant offer but he denied it.

Despite Woods' leadership and influence, PGA Tour has already lost some of its big names as the golfers found it difficult to resist the riches of the rival Saudi-backed league. Woods, however, remains focused on ensuring those who haven't yet committed to the LIV Golf League are not in two minds about continuing with the PGA Tour.

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"I just don't understand it," golf legend Tiger Woods had said on the format of the breakaway LIV Golf Series while tearing into the players who turned their back on the PGA Tour to join the Saudi-backed rival league.

"I just don't understand it," golf legend Tiger Woods had said on the format of the breakaway LIV Golf Series while tearing into the players who turned their back on the PGA Tour to join the Saudi-backed rival league. Woods has since been quite vocal on why he is completely against the idea of nurturing a breakaway league while reaffirming his commitment to the PGA Tour. LIV Golf is funded by the Public Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia. The breakaway league claims it has huge ambitions and the major objective remains to improve professional golf. However, it has been widely criticised by several professional golfers and human rights groups who are opposed to Saudi Arabia's history of oppression and violence. Woods, one of the icons of the game, seems to have assumed a leadership role in leading PGA Tour's fight against LIV Golf Series. Woods had recently attended a meeting with some of the top golfers from the PGA Tour to discuss the strategy to combat the threat of the breakaway series. Woods jetted off from his home in Florida last week to Philadelphia where he along with Rickie Fowler met the big names of the PGA Tour, including the likes of Justin Thomas, Rory Mcilroy and others. Details of the meeting have since surfaced and Woods' efforts in saving the PGA Tour's grace in the wake of the huge battle have impressed many, who believe the American legend has gained the status of the Tour's virtual commissioner. Also Read: Ronaldo brutally ignores Jammie Carragher ahead of Liverpool clash, video goes viral - WATCH PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan and other administrators were not part of the meeting which was reportedly a hush-hush affair. Woods met with at least 15 players during the meeting and the option of a tour within a tour with 18 not-cut tournaments featuring top 60 players with a no-cut format was discussed. The idea of sitting at the table with LIV Golf was also reportedly debated during the meeting along with the proposal of a shake-up of the PGA Tour's financial model. There have been suggestions to rescind the Tour's non-profit model which can bring in significant investments allowing them to compete with the riches of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League. Also Read: Legendary sprinter Usain Bolt files for trademark to protect his iconic victory pose Tiger Woods rejected a big money offer from LIV Golf to support PGA Tour: 15-time major winner Woods was offered around 700-800 million dollars by the Saudi-backed LIV League but the golf legend rejected any advances to remain committed to the PGA Tour. Former professional golfer and the LIV Golf commissioner, Greg Norman had confirmed Woods was presented with an exorbitant offer but he denied it. Despite Woods' leadership and influence, PGA Tour has already lost some of its big names as the golfers found it difficult to resist the riches of the rival Saudi-backed league. Woods, however, remains focused on ensuring those who haven't yet committed to the LIV Golf League are not in two minds about continuing with the PGA Tour. ×

Tiger Woods leads PGA Tour's fightback against breakaway LIV Golf Series

Europe is dealing with a historic drought and almost all of France is now under some level of water restrictions. Water bans are hitting businesses and citizens alike but golf courses in the country are staying green.

Europe: Golf courses stay green amid France drought, owners allowed to water

Tiger Woods turned down a sum in the region of $700-800 million to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series, the breakaway circuit`s CEO Greg Norman told Fox News. Norman said the offer was made before the Australian was named chief of the controversial series, which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund.

"That number was out there before I became CEO. So that number has been out there, yes," two-times major winner Norman said in an interview that aired on Monday night. "Look, Tiger is a needle mover, right? So, of course you`re got to look at the best of the best. They had originally approached Tiger before I became CEO. That number is somewhere in that ($700-800 million) neighbourhood."

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LIV Golf has signed several marquee players for the series, including Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau, but 15-times major champion Woods has stayed committed to the PGA Tour. Former world number one Woods said before last month`s British Open that he disagreed with the decision by players to join the LIV Series and compared the circuit, which features huge guaranteed contracts and a 54-hole format, to the senior Champions Tour.

"I think that what they`ve done is they`ve turned their back on what has allowed them to get to this position," he said.

Tiger Woods turned down a sum in the region of $700-800 million to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series, the breakaway circuit`s CEO Greg Norman told Fox News.

Tiger Woods turned down a sum in the region of $700-800 million to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series, the breakaway circuit`s CEO Greg Norman told Fox News. Norman said the offer was made before the Australian was named chief of the controversial series, which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund. "That number was out there before I became CEO. So that number has been out there, yes," two-times major winner Norman said in an interview that aired on Monday night. "Look, Tiger is a needle mover, right? So, of course you`re got to look at the best of the best. They had originally approached Tiger before I became CEO. That number is somewhere in that ($700-800 million) neighbourhood." ALSO READ | India secure first-ever medal in lawn bowls in Commonwealth Games history LIV Golf has signed several marquee players for the series, including Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau, but 15-times major champion Woods has stayed committed to the PGA Tour. Former world number one Woods said before last month`s British Open that he disagreed with the decision by players to join the LIV Series and compared the circuit, which features huge guaranteed contracts and a 54-hole format, to the senior Champions Tour. "I think that what they`ve done is they`ve turned their back on what has allowed them to get to this position," he said.

Tiger Woods rejected $700-800 million LIV offer, reveals breakaway circuit's CEO Greg Norman

LIV Golf announced plans on Wednesday for a 14-event league schedule in 2023 while also introducing promotion and relegation through its International Series along with an end-of-season qualifying tournament. 
The full LIV Golf League schedule was not announced but the Saudi Arabia-funded breakaway circuit said events will be played across North and Latin Americas, Asia, Australia, the Middle East and Europe.

Consistent with the LIV Golf Invitational Series, which launched in June, LIV Golf League will feature simultaneous team and individual play with golfers competing for an unprecedented $405 million in prize purses. LIV said in a news release the schedule will not compete with the majors, international team events or heritage events "so the best players in the game will always be able to make their own choices about where to play".

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Between League events and International Series tournaments, LIV Golf will stage 25 tournaments worldwide in 2023.m According to LIV, teams will be led by one captain who will be able to build the franchise in an effort to gain the greatest fan following and sponsor interest.

LIV Golf League will also offer opportunities for promotions and relegations through the International Series. There will also be an end-of-season LIV Golf Promotions event offering an opportunity for new talent to enter the league. The third event of the inaugural LIV Golf Invitational Series is being held this week at former U.S. President Donald Trump`s Bedminster golf club in New Jersey.

LIV Golf announced plans on Wednesday for a 14-event league schedule in 2023 while also introducing promotion and relegation through its International Series along with an end-of-season qualifying tournament.

LIV Golf announced plans on Wednesday for a 14-event league schedule in 2023 while also introducing promotion and relegation through its International Series along with an end-of-season qualifying tournament. The full LIV Golf League schedule was not announced but the Saudi Arabia-funded breakaway circuit said events will be played across North and Latin Americas, Asia, Australia, the Middle East and Europe. Consistent with the LIV Golf Invitational Series, which launched in June, LIV Golf League will feature simultaneous team and individual play with golfers competing for an unprecedented $405 million in prize purses. LIV said in a news release the schedule will not compete with the majors, international team events or heritage events "so the best players in the game will always be able to make their own choices about where to play". ALSO READ | Mutual of Omaha ends Swedish player Henrik Stenson sponsorship after he joins LIV Golf Between League events and International Series tournaments, LIV Golf will stage 25 tournaments worldwide in 2023.m According to LIV, teams will be led by one captain who will be able to build the franchise in an effort to gain the greatest fan following and sponsor interest. LIV Golf League will also offer opportunities for promotions and relegations through the International Series. There will also be an end-of-season LIV Golf Promotions event offering an opportunity for new talent to enter the league. The third event of the inaugural LIV Golf Invitational Series is being held this week at former U.S. President Donald Trump`s Bedminster golf club in New Jersey.

LIV plan for 2023 comprises 14-event league schedule and relegation

Mutual of Omaha have ended their sponsorship of Henrik Stenson, the American company said on Wednesday, a week after the Swede joined the lucrative LIV Golf Invitational Series. Stenson, who won the 2016 British Open with a record score, was stripped of Team Europe`s Ryder Cup captaincy last week, hours before he announced his decision to join the Saudi-backed breakaway league. Stenson competed wearing a Mutual of Omaha cap and was also the company`s golf ambassador at the Open earlier this month.

"Mutual of Omaha and Henrik Stenson have mutually decided to end their sponsorship relationship, effective immediately," a spokesperson said. Reuters has reached out to Stenson for comment. The U.S. and European based Tours have banned and fined anyone joining the LIV Series.

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Bankrolled by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund, LIV Golf has already roped in six-times major winner Phil Mickelson, former world number ones Dustin Johnson and Brooks Koepka, as well as former U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau. Critics of the new series say it amounts to `sportswashing` by a nation trying to improve its reputation in light of its history of human rights abuses.

Mutual of Omaha have ended their sponsorship of Henrik Stenson, the American company said on Wednesday, a week after the Swede joined the lucrative LIV Golf Invitational Series.

Mutual of Omaha have ended their sponsorship of Henrik Stenson, the American company said on Wednesday, a week after the Swede joined the lucrative LIV Golf Invitational Series. Stenson, who won the 2016 British Open with a record score, was stripped of Team Europe`s Ryder Cup captaincy last week, hours before he announced his decision to join the Saudi-backed breakaway league. Stenson competed wearing a Mutual of Omaha cap and was also the company`s golf ambassador at the Open earlier this month. "Mutual of Omaha and Henrik Stenson have mutually decided to end their sponsorship relationship, effective immediately," a spokesperson said. Reuters has reached out to Stenson for comment. The U.S. and European based Tours have banned and fined anyone joining the LIV Series. ALSO READ | US basketballer Brittney Griner claims she didn't intend to smuggle drugs into Russia Bankrolled by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund, LIV Golf has already roped in six-times major winner Phil Mickelson, former world number ones Dustin Johnson and Brooks Koepka, as well as former U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau. Critics of the new series say it amounts to `sportswashing` by a nation trying to improve its reputation in light of its history of human rights abuses.

Mutual of Omaha ends Swedish player Henrik Stenson sponsorship after he joins LIV Golf

Australia's Cameron Smith won the 150th&nbsp;British&nbsp;Open&nbsp;at St Andrews on Sunday after a stunning final round of 64 saw him overtake favourite Rory McIlroy on a dramatic day at the Old Course and claim his first major title with a 20-under-par total.

Smith began the day four shots off the lead but his eight-under-par fourth round allowed him to finish a shot clear of Cameron Young of the United States, with a frustrated McIlroy ending another stroke back in third after a 70.

The world number six would have known something special was needed on Sunday for him to win the Claret Jug and he duly delivered with eight birdies -- including five in a row from the 10th -- and not a single dropped shot.

McIlroy had been the favourite coming into the week and was two shots clear and in control at the turn in his final round, but then just in front Smith set off on his birdie surge and the pendulum swung definitively his way.

At the age of 28, Smith is the first Australian in almost three decades to win the&nbsp;British&nbsp;Open&nbsp;since Greg Norman claimed his second Claret Jug at Royal St George's in 1993.

The Brisbane native with the trademark mullet is also the third Australian to win the&nbsp;Open&nbsp;at the home of golf, after Peter Thomson in 1955 and Kel Nagle, who won the&nbsp;Open&nbsp;in 1960.

"To win an&nbsp;Open&nbsp;Championship in itself is going to be a golfer's highlight but to do it around St Andrews is unbelievable," he said.

"This place is so cool. I love the golf course and the town."

Smith's 20-under-par total of 268 is the lowest winning score in an&nbsp;Open&nbsp;at St Andrews, bettering the performance of Tiger Woods, who won on 19-under in 2000.

In stark contrast to Smith, McIlroy was left to rue a series of missed birdie putts, while Viktor Hovland -- who had shared the overnight lead on 16-under -- faded badly to shoot a 74.

That left the door&nbsp;open&nbsp;for one of the chasing pack and Smith took full advantage thanks to his incredible performance on the back nine.

As well as the birdies he showed nerves of steel to save par at the 17th, the legendary Road Hole.

Yet he needed his final birdie on 18 as his playing partner Young produced an eagle to finish with a 65 and end on 19-under.

A play-off was avoided and Smith could celebrate his first major after he finished tied third at this year's Masters, a tournament in which he also came second in 2020.

Before this week his biggest win had come at the Players Championship in March.

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<h2>- McIlroy rues missed putts -</h2>

If Young, the 25-year-old New Yorker who had been the leader after the first round, can be satisfied with his showing this week, the same ultimately cannot be said for McIlroy.

"Just disappointment I guess. I had a great opportunity today to add to that major tally and I didn't quite get it done," McIlroy, who is still stuck on four major titles, told NBC.

"I didn't feel like I did many things wrong, but the putter went cold on me throughout the round."

Now 33, few would have thought when he won the 2014&nbsp;Open&nbsp;at Hoylake and followed it with victory in the PGA Championship a few weeks later that he would then embark on a major drought which will extend into a ninth year.

"I got beaten by the better player this week. To shoot 64 to win an&nbsp;Open&nbsp;Championship at St Andrews is one hell of a showing, so hats off to Cam, he's had an unbelievable week," McIlroy added.

England's Tommy Fleetwood finished in a tie for fourth on 14 under par alongside Hovland, who had been hoping to become the first Norwegian winner of a men's major.

Brian Harman of the United States came tied sixth on 13-under with Dustin Johnson, who was the highest finisher among the 24 players from the breakaway Saudi-backed LIV series in St Andrews this week.

The chief executive of the LIV series is Norman, the 67-year-old who was not invited to St Andrews by organisers the R&amp;A as a result but who will surely be proud of his compatriot's performance.

Australia's Cameron Smith won the 150th British Open at St Andrews on Sunday after a stunning final round of 64 saw him overtake favourite Rory McIlroy on a dramatic day at the Old Course and claim his first major title with a 20-under-par total.

Australia's Cameron Smith won the 150th British Open at St Andrews on Sunday after a stunning final round of 64 saw him overtake favourite Rory McIlroy on a dramatic day at the Old Course and claim his first major title with a 20-under-par total. Smith began the day four shots off the lead but his eight-under-par fourth round allowed him to finish a shot clear of Cameron Young of the United States, with a frustrated McIlroy ending another stroke back in third after a 70. The world number six would have known something special was needed on Sunday for him to win the Claret Jug and he duly delivered with eight birdies -- including five in a row from the 10th -- and not a single dropped shot. McIlroy had been the favourite coming into the week and was two shots clear and in control at the turn in his final round, but then just in front Smith set off on his birdie surge and the pendulum swung definitively his way. At the age of 28, Smith is the first Australian in almost three decades to win the British Open since Greg Norman claimed his second Claret Jug at Royal St George's in 1993. The Brisbane native with the trademark mullet is also the third Australian to win the Open at the home of golf, after Peter Thomson in 1955 and Kel Nagle, who won the Open in 1960. "To win an Open Championship in itself is going to be a golfer's highlight but to do it around St Andrews is unbelievable," he said. "This place is so cool. I love the golf course and the town." Smith's 20-under-par total of 268 is the lowest winning score in an Open at St Andrews, bettering the performance of Tiger Woods, who won on 19-under in 2000. In stark contrast to Smith, McIlroy was left to rue a series of missed birdie putts, while Viktor Hovland -- who had shared the overnight lead on 16-under -- faded badly to shoot a 74. That left the door open for one of the chasing pack and Smith took full advantage thanks to his incredible performance on the back nine. As well as the birdies he showed nerves of steel to save par at the 17th, the legendary Road Hole. Yet he needed his final birdie on 18 as his playing partner Young produced an eagle to finish with a 65 and end on 19-under. A play-off was avoided and Smith could celebrate his first major after he finished tied third at this year's Masters, a tournament in which he also came second in 2020. Before this week his biggest win had come at the Players Championship in March. ALSO READ | PV Sindhu defeats China's Wang Zhi Yi in thrilling final to clinch Singapore Open 2022 title - McIlroy rues missed putts - If Young, the 25-year-old New Yorker who had been the leader after the first round, can be satisfied with his showing this week, the same ultimately cannot be said for McIlroy. "Just disappointment I guess. I had a great opportunity today to add to that major tally and I didn't quite get it done," McIlroy, who is still stuck on four major titles, told NBC. "I didn't feel like I did many things wrong, but the putter went cold on me throughout the round." Now 33, few would have thought when he won the 2014 Open at Hoylake and followed it with victory in the PGA Championship a few weeks later that he would then embark on a major drought which will extend into a ninth year. "I got beaten by the better player this week. To shoot 64 to win an Open Championship at St Andrews is one hell of a showing, so hats off to Cam, he's had an unbelievable week," McIlroy added. England's Tommy Fleetwood finished in a tie for fourth on 14 under par alongside Hovland, who had been hoping to become the first Norwegian winner of a men's major. Brian Harman of the United States came tied sixth on 13-under with Dustin Johnson, who was the highest finisher among the 24 players from the breakaway Saudi-backed LIV series in St Andrews this week. The chief executive of the LIV series is Norman, the 67-year-old who was not invited to St Andrews by organisers the R&A as a result but who will surely be proud of his compatriot's performance.

Cameron Smith sees off favourite Rory McIlroy to clinch British Open title

Tiger Woods made a dismal start to his British Open bid as he carded two early double-bogeys on the way to a six-over-par 78 that left him 14 shots behind the leader on Thursday.

The American 15-times major champion, who has won the Open twice at St Andrews, looked out of sorts from the moment he found the water on the par-four first hole and started with a six on his card.

"It feels like I didn't really hit it that bad. I did have bad speed on the greens, yes," Woods told reporters. "But I ended up in bad spots. Or just had some weird things happen. And that's just the way it goes."

Woods, who returned to competitive golf in April at the Masters 14 months after suffering serious injuries in a car crash, missed last month's U.S. Open to prepare for the British Open.

But the 46-year-old looked pensive as he trudged around the Old Course and bogeys at the third and fourth holes took him to four over par before he failed to hole a short putt on the seventh green to rack up another six.

Things did start to improve around the turn however.

He sank a six-foot putt to birdie the ninth, grinning broadly as he acknowledged warm applause from the crowd and riding the momentum to pick up another shot at the 10th.

Woods bogeyed the 13th, though, and narrowly missed a long eagle putt at the par-five 14th, settling for his third birdie of the round.

A wild tee shot at the 16th landed in the heavy rough and cost him another shot before he safely negotiated the last two holes and raised his cap to the packed galleries around the 18th green.

The significance of the venue was not lost on Woods.

"(It was) very, very meaningful," he said, "All things considered, where I've been, I was hoping I could play this event this year. And I am. I just didn't do a very good job of it."

He also appreciated the support.

"The crowd were absolutely fantastic," he said. "So supportive. They were very respectful and very appreciative of all of us out there today, which was great."

Tied for 145th place in the 156-man field, Woods needs to make up considerable ground if he is to avoid missing the halfway cut at the scene of two of his greatest triumphs, in 2000 and 2005.

"Looks like I'm going to have to shoot 66 tomorrow to have a chance," he said. "Guys did it today. And that's my responsibility tomorrow to go ahead and do it."

Tiger Woods made a dismal start to his British Open bid as he carded two early double-bogeys on the way to a six-over-par 78 that left him 14 shots behind the leader on Thursday.

Tiger Woods made a dismal start to his British Open bid as he carded two early double-bogeys on the way to a six-over-par 78 that left him 14 shots behind the leader on Thursday. The American 15-times major champion, who has won the Open twice at St Andrews, looked out of sorts from the moment he found the water on the par-four first hole and started with a six on his card. "It feels like I didn't really hit it that bad. I did have bad speed on the greens, yes," Woods told reporters. "But I ended up in bad spots. Or just had some weird things happen. And that's just the way it goes." Woods, who returned to competitive golf in April at the Masters 14 months after suffering serious injuries in a car crash, missed last month's U.S. Open to prepare for the British Open. But the 46-year-old looked pensive as he trudged around the Old Course and bogeys at the third and fourth holes took him to four over par before he failed to hole a short putt on the seventh green to rack up another six. Things did start to improve around the turn however. He sank a six-foot putt to birdie the ninth, grinning broadly as he acknowledged warm applause from the crowd and riding the momentum to pick up another shot at the 10th. Woods bogeyed the 13th, though, and narrowly missed a long eagle putt at the par-five 14th, settling for his third birdie of the round. A wild tee shot at the 16th landed in the heavy rough and cost him another shot before he safely negotiated the last two holes and raised his cap to the packed galleries around the 18th green. The significance of the venue was not lost on Woods. "(It was) very, very meaningful," he said, "All things considered, where I've been, I was hoping I could play this event this year. And I am. I just didn't do a very good job of it." He also appreciated the support. "The crowd were absolutely fantastic," he said. "So supportive. They were very respectful and very appreciative of all of us out there today, which was great." Tied for 145th place in the 156-man field, Woods needs to make up considerable ground if he is to avoid missing the halfway cut at the scene of two of his greatest triumphs, in 2000 and 2005. "Looks like I'm going to have to shoot 66 tomorrow to have a chance," he said. "Guys did it today. And that's my responsibility tomorrow to go ahead and do it."

Tiger Woods struggles badly on St Andrews return

LIV Golf rebel Talor Gooch climbed into a strong position at the halfway stage of the British Open after a second-round of 69 on Friday left him at seven under par for the championship. That put Gooch, one of 24 players in this week's line-up who have joined the breakaway Saudi-backed LIV series, a single shot behind the overnight leader, Cameron Young of the United States.

Gooch, the American world number 40, followed his opening 68 with a round that featured four birdies and just one dropped shot. His only bogey came at 16, but he erased the damage caused by that with a birdie at the last after driving the green.

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Gooch, who is making just his second Open start, already has two top-20 results in majors this year, at the Masters and at the PGA Championship. Young tees off at at 1:26 pm (1226 GMT) in his second round on Friday.

LIV Golf rebel Talor Gooch climbed into a strong position at the halfway stage of the British Open after a second-round of 69 on Friday left him at seven under par for the championship.

LIV Golf rebel Talor Gooch climbed into a strong position at the halfway stage of the British Open after a second-round of 69 on Friday left him at seven under par for the championship. That put Gooch, one of 24 players in this week's line-up who have joined the breakaway Saudi-backed LIV series, a single shot behind the overnight leader, Cameron Young of the United States. Gooch, the American world number 40, followed his opening 68 with a round that featured four birdies and just one dropped shot. His only bogey came at 16, but he erased the damage caused by that with a birdie at the last after driving the green. ALSO READ | 'Let it go dude', reacts Phil Mickelson as star golfer plays down LIV switch Gooch, who is making just his second Open start, already has two top-20 results in majors this year, at the Masters and at the PGA Championship. Young tees off at at 1:26 pm (1226 GMT) in his second round on Friday.

LIV rebel Talor Gooch attains commanding position at British Open

Phil Mickelson and Ian Poulter, two of the biggest names to join the rebel LIV Golf Invitational Series, played down suggestions they had received a hostile reception during the first round of the British Open on Thursday.

Briton Poulter was booed on the first tee before shooting a three-under-par 69 and Mickelson was unfazed by his decision not to attend the pre-tournament champions dinner. "The R&amp;A contacted me a couple weeks before and said, look, we don`t think it`s a great idea you go, but if you want to, you can," the American six-times major champion said.

"I just didn`t want to make a big deal about it, so I said fine. We both kind of agreed that it would be best if I didn`t." The 52-year-old Mickelson, who started with a level-par 72 at St Andrews, was delighted to be at the home of golf.

"I love being here. Everybody here loves golf, and we find this place to be very spiritual," he said. "It`s just a special place." Mickelson said he was very comfortable with his decision to join the LIV series. "I couldn`t be more excited and ecstatic with where I`m at," he said. "I love the events. I get to have competitive golf in my life on a scale that is fun, exciting, different, and lets me play and compete but still do the things outside that I want to do."

He did bristle when asked again about the champions dinner. "Let it go, dude. Let it go," he said. "That`s three times you`ve asked the same question. I don`t know what to tell you. I couldn`t be happier." 
Poulter, revered in European golf for his inspirational Ryder Cup performances, was booed by a few spectators, although the Englishman appeared not to notice.

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"I actually thought I had a great reception on the first tee, to be honest," he said. "All I heard was clapping." 
Poulter reacted with indignation to suggestions he was heckled around the course. "Oh, my gosh, I have heard not one heckle. In three weeks, I`ve heard nothing," he said. "You lot can write whatever you like about being heckled and booing."

Poulter said his relationship with other players had not been affected by his decision to join the LIV breakaway. "We might have a difference of opinion, but they`re my friends," he said. "You play golf with these guys for 20-plus years or 10, 15 years, you`ve been part of many teams with them. "We`re still friends, whatever the landscape is and wherever you`re playing golf."

Poulter, 46, will not allow himself to be distracted as he bids to win his first major title. "I`m here to play golf. This could probably be my last Open Championship at St Andrews. So I`m trying to enjoy it despite the questioning," he said. "I shot three under. I was quite happy. I was nice and relaxed."

Phil Mickelson and Ian Poulter, two of the biggest names to join the rebel LIV Golf Invitational Series, played down suggestions they had received a hostile reception during the first round of the British Open on Thursday.

Phil Mickelson and Ian Poulter, two of the biggest names to join the rebel LIV Golf Invitational Series, played down suggestions they had received a hostile reception during the first round of the British Open on Thursday. Briton Poulter was booed on the first tee before shooting a three-under-par 69 and Mickelson was unfazed by his decision not to attend the pre-tournament champions dinner. "The R&A contacted me a couple weeks before and said, look, we don`t think it`s a great idea you go, but if you want to, you can," the American six-times major champion said. "I just didn`t want to make a big deal about it, so I said fine. We both kind of agreed that it would be best if I didn`t." The 52-year-old Mickelson, who started with a level-par 72 at St Andrews, was delighted to be at the home of golf. "I love being here. Everybody here loves golf, and we find this place to be very spiritual," he said. "It`s just a special place." Mickelson said he was very comfortable with his decision to join the LIV series. "I couldn`t be more excited and ecstatic with where I`m at," he said. "I love the events. I get to have competitive golf in my life on a scale that is fun, exciting, different, and lets me play and compete but still do the things outside that I want to do." He did bristle when asked again about the champions dinner. "Let it go, dude. Let it go," he said. "That`s three times you`ve asked the same question. I don`t know what to tell you. I couldn`t be happier." Poulter, revered in European golf for his inspirational Ryder Cup performances, was booed by a few spectators, although the Englishman appeared not to notice. ALSO READ | ISSF Shooting World Cup: Prithviraj, Vivaan, Bhowneesh secure silver medal in Trap team event "I actually thought I had a great reception on the first tee, to be honest," he said. "All I heard was clapping." Poulter reacted with indignation to suggestions he was heckled around the course. "Oh, my gosh, I have heard not one heckle. In three weeks, I`ve heard nothing," he said. "You lot can write whatever you like about being heckled and booing." Poulter said his relationship with other players had not been affected by his decision to join the LIV breakaway. "We might have a difference of opinion, but they`re my friends," he said. "You play golf with these guys for 20-plus years or 10, 15 years, you`ve been part of many teams with them. "We`re still friends, whatever the landscape is and wherever you`re playing golf." Poulter, 46, will not allow himself to be distracted as he bids to win his first major title. "I`m here to play golf. This could probably be my last Open Championship at St Andrews. So I`m trying to enjoy it despite the questioning," he said. "I shot three under. I was quite happy. I was nice and relaxed."

'Let it go dude', reacts Phil Mickelson as star golfer plays down LIV switch

Americans Phil Mickelson and Bryson DeChambeau will be among the early starters when the 150th British Open gets underway at St Andrews on Thursday. Six-times major champion Mickelson tees off at 0730 local time (0630 GMT), two groups ahead of DeChambeau, the long-hitting 2020 U.S. Open winner who will play with 56-year-old fellow American John Daly, the Open champion at St Andrews in 1995. Defending champion Collin Morikawa goes out with world number two Rory McIlroy and in-form American Xander Schauffele.

"I am the defending champ, but we`re at a different golf course. We`re at a course I`ve never been to," Morikawa said. "Even though my week is filled with a couple of extra media obligations doesn`t mean by Thursday morning I`ll not be ready. Through two days (here) so far I`ve done a pretty good job of figuring out what I`m going to do."

McIlroy, 33, won the British Open and the U.S. PGA Championship in 2014 to move on to fourth major titles, but he has not added to that haul since. "I`ve only played one Open here before," McIlroy told reporters on Tuesday. "I`m playing well. I`m in good form. My confidence in my game is as high as it`s been in quite a while.

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"I can`t go in here thinking that this might be my time. I just have to go out and play a really good tournament. I`ve got to string four good rounds together."

Tiger Woods, twice Open champion at St Andrews, begins his bid for a 16th major title at 1459 GMT alongside Briton Matthew Fitzpatrick who won this year`s U.S. Open. World number one Scottie Scheffler will play with Chile`s Joaquin Niemann and Briton Tyrrell Hatton while 2017 Open champion Jordan Spieth is also among the later starters in a group including world number three Jon Rahm of Spain. 
Italian Francesco Molinari, the 2018 Open champion, is among the early starters alongside Britons Justin Rose and Tommy Fleetwood.

Scotland`s Paul Lawrie, the 1999 Open champion, will have the honour of hitting the first ball of the tournament at 0635 local time. "It`s always nice to hit the opening shot," Lawrie said. "Looking forward to it. It`s a huge week, a big milestone. The more you think about it, it`s a nice thing to be asked to do at the 150th Open."

Americans Phil Mickelson and Bryson DeChambeau will be among the early starters when the 150th British Open gets underway at St Andrews on Thursday. Six-times major champion Mickelson tees off at 0730 local time (0630 GMT), two groups ahead of DeChambeau, the long-hitting 2020 U.

Americans Phil Mickelson and Bryson DeChambeau will be among the early starters when the 150th British Open gets underway at St Andrews on Thursday. Six-times major champion Mickelson tees off at 0730 local time (0630 GMT), two groups ahead of DeChambeau, the long-hitting 2020 U.S. Open winner who will play with 56-year-old fellow American John Daly, the Open champion at St Andrews in 1995. Defending champion Collin Morikawa goes out with world number two Rory McIlroy and in-form American Xander Schauffele. "I am the defending champ, but we`re at a different golf course. We`re at a course I`ve never been to," Morikawa said. "Even though my week is filled with a couple of extra media obligations doesn`t mean by Thursday morning I`ll not be ready. Through two days (here) so far I`ve done a pretty good job of figuring out what I`m going to do." McIlroy, 33, won the British Open and the U.S. PGA Championship in 2014 to move on to fourth major titles, but he has not added to that haul since. "I`ve only played one Open here before," McIlroy told reporters on Tuesday. "I`m playing well. I`m in good form. My confidence in my game is as high as it`s been in quite a while. ALSO READ | 'As long as you fulfil criteria...' Westwood feels LIV Golf Series participants should be allowed in Ryder Cup "I can`t go in here thinking that this might be my time. I just have to go out and play a really good tournament. I`ve got to string four good rounds together." Tiger Woods, twice Open champion at St Andrews, begins his bid for a 16th major title at 1459 GMT alongside Briton Matthew Fitzpatrick who won this year`s U.S. Open. World number one Scottie Scheffler will play with Chile`s Joaquin Niemann and Briton Tyrrell Hatton while 2017 Open champion Jordan Spieth is also among the later starters in a group including world number three Jon Rahm of Spain. Italian Francesco Molinari, the 2018 Open champion, is among the early starters alongside Britons Justin Rose and Tommy Fleetwood. Scotland`s Paul Lawrie, the 1999 Open champion, will have the honour of hitting the first ball of the tournament at 0635 local time. "It`s always nice to hit the opening shot," Lawrie said. "Looking forward to it. It`s a huge week, a big milestone. The more you think about it, it`s a nice thing to be asked to do at the 150th Open."

Americans Phil Mickelson, Bryson DeChambeau among early starters for British Open

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

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

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

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

DP World Tour chief executive Keith Pelley has launched a scathing attack on the players who threatened legal action unless their sanctions for competing in&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;are removed. DP World Tour members including Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood were each fined £100,000 ($120,000) and banned from next week's Scottish Open and two other events co-sanctioned with the PGA Tour.

The punishment came after they played in the opening event of the controversial Saudi-backed&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;series earlier this month, despite being refused permission by the DP World Tour. Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau are among the US-based stars who have signed up for the&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;events.

In an open letter published by The Telegraph, the 16 players implored the DP World Tour to reconsider the penalties. They claimed the recent strengthened partnership between the PGA Tour and DP World Tour in response to the influx of Saudi cash leaves the European circuit playing "second fiddle" to the US-based tournaments.

The players also called for a Tour membership meeting to discuss the matter, threatening that "you will leave us with no choice but to employ the various other means and methods at our disposal to rectify these wrongs".

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But Pelley responded by criticising the players' claim that they "care deeply" about the Tour, insisting the sanctions handed out are "proportionate, fair and, I believe, considered necessary by the majority of our members".

He also said one player gave a signed commitment to play in this week's Irish Open, but is instead contesting the second&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;event in Portland.

"There has been a leak to the media of a letter we received on behalf of a number of&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;players which contains so many inaccuracies that it cannot remain unchallenged," Pelley said in a statement. "Before joining&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf, players knew there would be consequences if they chose money over competition.

"Many of them at the time understood and accepted that. Indeed, as one player named in the letter said in a media interview earlier this year; 'If they ban me, they ban me.' It is not credible that some are now surprised with the actions we have taken."

Pelley is adamant the DP World Tour's closer relationship with the PGA Tour has not diluted the strength of the European events. "We held a player meeting in Ireland on Tuesday where we outlined in great detail all the many benefits of our expanded relationship with the PGA Tour," he said. "One of those is an unprecedented 10 cards on offer to the PGA Tour, cards that many of the players named in this letter desperately wanted to attain in the early stages of their careers. Why now be critical of those trying to do the same?"

DP World Tour chief executive Keith Pelley has launched a scathing attack on the players who threatened legal action unless their sanctions for competing in LIV Golf are removed.

DP World Tour chief executive Keith Pelley has launched a scathing attack on the players who threatened legal action unless their sanctions for competing in LIV Golf are removed. DP World Tour members including Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood were each fined £100,000 ($120,000) and banned from next week's Scottish Open and two other events co-sanctioned with the PGA Tour. The punishment came after they played in the opening event of the controversial Saudi-backed LIV Golf series earlier this month, despite being refused permission by the DP World Tour. Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau are among the US-based stars who have signed up for the LIV Golf events. In an open letter published by The Telegraph, the 16 players implored the DP World Tour to reconsider the penalties. They claimed the recent strengthened partnership between the PGA Tour and DP World Tour in response to the influx of Saudi cash leaves the European circuit playing "second fiddle" to the US-based tournaments. The players also called for a Tour membership meeting to discuss the matter, threatening that "you will leave us with no choice but to employ the various other means and methods at our disposal to rectify these wrongs". ALSO READ | 'As long as you fulfil criteria...' Westwood feels LIV Golf Series participants should be allowed in Ryder Cup But Pelley responded by criticising the players' claim that they "care deeply" about the Tour, insisting the sanctions handed out are "proportionate, fair and, I believe, considered necessary by the majority of our members". He also said one player gave a signed commitment to play in this week's Irish Open, but is instead contesting the second LIV Golf event in Portland. "There has been a leak to the media of a letter we received on behalf of a number of LIV Golf players which contains so many inaccuracies that it cannot remain unchallenged," Pelley said in a statement. "Before joining LIV Golf, players knew there would be consequences if they chose money over competition. "Many of them at the time understood and accepted that. Indeed, as one player named in the letter said in a media interview earlier this year; 'If they ban me, they ban me.' It is not credible that some are now surprised with the actions we have taken." Pelley is adamant the DP World Tour's closer relationship with the PGA Tour has not diluted the strength of the European events. "We held a player meeting in Ireland on Tuesday where we outlined in great detail all the many benefits of our expanded relationship with the PGA Tour," he said. "One of those is an unprecedented 10 cards on offer to the PGA Tour, cards that many of the players named in this letter desperately wanted to attain in the early stages of their careers. Why now be critical of those trying to do the same?"

DP World Tour chief lashes out at LIV Golf stars following sanction plea

There has been a lot of hullabaloo with regard to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series. Ever since the first&nbsp;LIV Golf Invitational Series&nbsp;started on 9 June 2022, at the Centurion Club, near London, England, it has led to a widespread reaction in the golf fraternity.&nbsp;

The PGA Tour had announced that&nbsp;its members who take part in LIV Golf events could be sanctioned for playing in a conflicting event sans the Tour's permission, leading to fines, suspensions, or bans. On 9 June, the PGA Tour made it clear&nbsp;that its members participating in the inaugural&nbsp;LIV Golf tournament were not eligible to compete in tour events or the Presidents Cup. Since then, this has become a huge talking point.

Thus, Lee Westwood -- who is&nbsp;also among many&nbsp;top players to have signed up for the lucrative Saudi-backed circuit -- has shared his views when asked if the LIV series participants should be given a green signal to participate in the Ryder Cup. For the unversed, the team event is&nbsp;not scheduled until September 2023. However, it remains unclear whether the players from the controversial series will be allowed to take part in the forthcoming edition of the premier tournament or not.

"Why should it be threatened? I've been playing Ryder Cup golf since 1997, and the criteria has been to be a member of the European Tour," Westwood said, addressing the DP World Tour by its former name. "Now, the criteria for being a member of the European Tour is to play four events. Why should they change that now?", he questioned as per a report in SkySport.

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"I've been a member of the PGA TOUR and still played four events on the European Tour, and why would the European Tour change their rules so dramatically because another tour doesn't like it or feels financially threatened? There's just a bit too much protection going on for my liking and not enough transparency.

"I think as long as you fulfil the criteria to be a European Tour member, then you should still have the opportunity to try and qualify for the Ryder Cup team," added the 49-year-old veteran English professional golfer.

Westwood, who has made as many as 11 appearances in the Ryder Cup, also blamed the PGA and DP World Tours by stating that they could've been better in their communication with players regarding the sanctions imposed on them after joining the&nbsp;LIV Golf Tour.&nbsp;

Thus, it remains to be seen if the LIV series players will be allowed to appear in next year's Ryder Cup.&nbsp;

There has been a lot of hullabaloo with regard to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series. Ever since the first LIV Golf Invitational Series started on 9 June 2022, at the Centurion Club, near London, England, it has led to a widespread reaction in the golf fraternity.

There has been a lot of hullabaloo with regard to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series. Ever since the first LIV Golf Invitational Series started on 9 June 2022, at the Centurion Club, near London, England, it has led to a widespread reaction in the golf fraternity. The PGA Tour had announced that its members who take part in LIV Golf events could be sanctioned for playing in a conflicting event sans the Tour's permission, leading to fines, suspensions, or bans. On 9 June, the PGA Tour made it clear that its members participating in the inaugural LIV Golf tournament were not eligible to compete in tour events or the Presidents Cup. Since then, this has become a huge talking point. Thus, Lee Westwood -- who is also among many top players to have signed up for the lucrative Saudi-backed circuit -- has shared his views when asked if the LIV series participants should be given a green signal to participate in the Ryder Cup. For the unversed, the team event is not scheduled until September 2023. However, it remains unclear whether the players from the controversial series will be allowed to take part in the forthcoming edition of the premier tournament or not. "Why should it be threatened? I've been playing Ryder Cup golf since 1997, and the criteria has been to be a member of the European Tour," Westwood said, addressing the DP World Tour by its former name. "Now, the criteria for being a member of the European Tour is to play four events. Why should they change that now?", he questioned as per a report in SkySport. ALSO READ | Neeraj Chopra Javelin throw, live streaming: When and where to watch Stockholm Diamond League 2022 in India? "I've been a member of the PGA TOUR and still played four events on the European Tour, and why would the European Tour change their rules so dramatically because another tour doesn't like it or feels financially threatened? There's just a bit too much protection going on for my liking and not enough transparency. "I think as long as you fulfil the criteria to be a European Tour member, then you should still have the opportunity to try and qualify for the Ryder Cup team," added the 49-year-old veteran English professional golfer. Westwood, who has made as many as 11 appearances in the Ryder Cup, also blamed the PGA and DP World Tours by stating that they could've been better in their communication with players regarding the sanctions imposed on them after joining the LIV Golf Tour. Thus, it remains to be seen if the LIV series players will be allowed to appear in next year's Ryder Cup.

'As long as you fulfil criteria...' Westwood feels LIV Golf Series participants should be allowed in Ryder Cup

Chun In-gee captured her third major title on Sunday, winning the Women's PGA Championship to claim her first major since 2016 and snap a victory drought of almost four years. The 27-year-old South Korean fired a three-over-par 75 in windy conditions at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland, to finish 72 holes on five-under 283.

That was good enough for a one-stroke triumph over American Lexi Thompson and Australian Minjee Lee to take the $1.35 million top prize from a record $9 million purse.

"It just means a lot because I didn't have any wins for almost 3 1/2 years," Chun said, her voice cracking with emotion. "My loyal fans in Korea, they never gave up on me no matter how I did."

Chun, ranked 33rd, had not won since October 2018 at the Hana Bank Championship in South Korea, a 76-event worldwide winless streak.

But after squandering what had been a three-stroke lead when the day began, Chun added a third career major trophy after the 2015 US Women's Open and 2016 Evian Championship.

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Chun dominated the first two rounds and led by as many as seven strokes before struggling to 75s in each of the final two rounds while sixth-ranked Thompson charged.

Thompson, however, could not end an eight-year major win drought since her 2014 Kraft Nabisco Championship trophy at age 19 or a three-year overall victory drought.

The American settled for her 11th top-five major finish since capturing her first major victory and her fourth major runner-up effort.

Thompson, tied for the lead with Chun at the par-4 17th, made a three-putt bogey to give the Asian star a one-stroke lead as they reached the 72nd hole of the week.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-tour-fines-and-bans-saudi-backed-liv-series-golfers-from-upcoming-events-including-scottish-open-491369">European tour fines and bans Saudi-backed LIV series golfers from upcoming events, including Scottish Open</a>

At the par-4 18th, Chun went into back greenside rough with her approach while Thompson had a long birdie putt. Chun rolled her putt over a ridge and five feet past the cup while Thompson two-putted for par, leaving Chun one last putt for the title.

Chun calmly rolled in the tension-packed putt and pumped her right fist as the ball fell into the cup and gave her a third career major title.

Chun In-gee captured her third major title on Sunday, winning the Women's PGA Championship to claim her first major since 2016 and snap a victory drought of almost four years.

Chun In-gee captured her third major title on Sunday, winning the Women's PGA Championship to claim her first major since 2016 and snap a victory drought of almost four years. The 27-year-old South Korean fired a three-over-par 75 in windy conditions at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland, to finish 72 holes on five-under 283. That was good enough for a one-stroke triumph over American Lexi Thompson and Australian Minjee Lee to take the $1.35 million top prize from a record $9 million purse. "It just means a lot because I didn't have any wins for almost 3 1/2 years," Chun said, her voice cracking with emotion. "My loyal fans in Korea, they never gave up on me no matter how I did." Chun, ranked 33rd, had not won since October 2018 at the Hana Bank Championship in South Korea, a 76-event worldwide winless streak. But after squandering what had been a three-stroke lead when the day began, Chun added a third career major trophy after the 2015 US Women's Open and 2016 Evian Championship. Also Read: Inclusiveness or unfair advantage? Debate over trans athletes in sports intensifies Chun dominated the first two rounds and led by as many as seven strokes before struggling to 75s in each of the final two rounds while sixth-ranked Thompson charged. Thompson, however, could not end an eight-year major win drought since her 2014 Kraft Nabisco Championship trophy at age 19 or a three-year overall victory drought. The American settled for her 11th top-five major finish since capturing her first major victory and her fourth major runner-up effort. Thompson, tied for the lead with Chun at the par-4 17th, made a three-putt bogey to give the Asian star a one-stroke lead as they reached the 72nd hole of the week. Also Read: European tour fines and bans Saudi-backed LIV series golfers from upcoming events, including Scottish Open At the par-4 18th, Chun went into back greenside rough with her approach while Thompson had a long birdie putt. Chun rolled her putt over a ridge and five feet past the cup while Thompson two-putted for par, leaving Chun one last putt for the title. Chun calmly rolled in the tension-packed putt and pumped her right fist as the ball fell into the cup and gave her a third career major title.

South Korea's Chun In-gee wins Women's PGA Championship

The European tour banned golfers who competed in the Saudi-backed breakaway LIV series from three upcoming tournaments, including the Scottish Open, on Friday and fined them $120,000. The tour said any players who took part in the inaugural LIV event in England this month would be suspended from the Scottish Open, Barbasol Championship and Barracuda Championship, and fined 100,000 pounds ($123,000). All three of those events are co-sanctioned by the European tour and the PGA, which has suspended players who competed in LIV.

There could be further sanctions" if the players continue to compete in LIV without authorization, the European tour said. Many members I have spoken to in recent weeks expressed the viewpoint that those who have chosen this route have not only disrespected them and our Tour, but also the meritocratic ecosystem of professional golf that has been the bedrock of our game for the past half a century and which will also be the foundation upon which we build the next 50 years," European tour chief executive Keith Pelley said. Their actions are not fair to the majority of our membership and undermine the Tour, which is why we are taking the action we have announced today.

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The European tour's announcement came while some players signed to LIV were playing in one of its own events. Some of the European tour's best-known players were on course Friday at the BMW International Open, including major winners Louis Oosthuizen, Sergio Garcia and Martin Kaymer. They all played the inaugural LIV event in England.

The European tour banned golfers who competed in the Saudi-backed breakaway LIV series from three upcoming tournaments, including the Scottish Open, on Friday and fined them $120,000.

The European tour banned golfers who competed in the Saudi-backed breakaway LIV series from three upcoming tournaments, including the Scottish Open, on Friday and fined them $120,000. The tour said any players who took part in the inaugural LIV event in England this month would be suspended from the Scottish Open, Barbasol Championship and Barracuda Championship, and fined 100,000 pounds ($123,000). All three of those events are co-sanctioned by the European tour and the PGA, which has suspended players who competed in LIV. There could be further sanctions" if the players continue to compete in LIV without authorization, the European tour said. Many members I have spoken to in recent weeks expressed the viewpoint that those who have chosen this route have not only disrespected them and our Tour, but also the meritocratic ecosystem of professional golf that has been the bedrock of our game for the past half a century and which will also be the foundation upon which we build the next 50 years," European tour chief executive Keith Pelley said. Their actions are not fair to the majority of our membership and undermine the Tour, which is why we are taking the action we have announced today. ALSO READ | Simone Asia Pacific Cup: 4 Indian women golfers to compete in tournament The European tour's announcement came while some players signed to LIV were playing in one of its own events. Some of the European tour's best-known players were on course Friday at the BMW International Open, including major winners Louis Oosthuizen, Sergio Garcia and Martin Kaymer. They all played the inaugural LIV event in England.

European tour fines and bans Saudi-backed LIV series golfers from upcoming events, including Scottish Open

The domestic Women`s Pro Golf Tour in India has provided a massive boost for the top Indian stars, who have done well on the local Tour. Four of its players will get a chance to play in the Simone Asia Pacific Cup, which in its inaugural year will carry as much as US$ 750,000 in prize purse. Two Indian teams of two players each have been invited for the inaugural edition of the Simone Asia Pacific Cup in Jakarta, Indonesia. The event is to be held from August 15 to 20, 2022.

The tournament will be held under the aegis of the Asia Golf Leaders Forum (AGLF). The tournament will feature a total prize purse of US$ 750,000, out of which US$ 500,000 is for the Individual event and US$ 250,000 for the Team event. The event will be a 54-hole stroke play event over three days. Initially, India were allotted one team and the two leading stars Aditi Ashok and Tvesa Malik were invited, but as per the Women`s Golf Association of India, they conveyed their regrets.

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They were replaced by Diksha Dagar and Gaurika Bishnoi.WGAI then made a strong pitch to be allowed a second Team, from their Order of Merit players. The request was accepted and Amandeep Drall and Vani Kapoor, the top 2 on the 2020-21 combined Order of Merit were chosen. All four players have conveyed their readiness. They have all been regulars on the Hero WPGT and also playing on the Ladies European Tour, besides making starts in South Africa and Australia. Champika Sayal will travel as the Team Principal-cum-Captain.

The domestic Women`s Pro Golf Tour in India has provided a massive boost for the top Indian stars, who have done well on the local Tour. Four of its players will get a chance to play in the Simone Asia Pacific Cup, which in its inaugural year will carry as much as US$ 750,000 in prize purse.

The domestic Women`s Pro Golf Tour in India has provided a massive boost for the top Indian stars, who have done well on the local Tour. Four of its players will get a chance to play in the Simone Asia Pacific Cup, which in its inaugural year will carry as much as US$ 750,000 in prize purse. Two Indian teams of two players each have been invited for the inaugural edition of the Simone Asia Pacific Cup in Jakarta, Indonesia. The event is to be held from August 15 to 20, 2022. The tournament will be held under the aegis of the Asia Golf Leaders Forum (AGLF). The tournament will feature a total prize purse of US$ 750,000, out of which US$ 500,000 is for the Individual event and US$ 250,000 for the Team event. The event will be a 54-hole stroke play event over three days. Initially, India were allotted one team and the two leading stars Aditi Ashok and Tvesa Malik were invited, but as per the Women`s Golf Association of India, they conveyed their regrets. ALSO READ | LIV Golf players will be allowed to take part at the Open, confirms R&A They were replaced by Diksha Dagar and Gaurika Bishnoi.WGAI then made a strong pitch to be allowed a second Team, from their Order of Merit players. The request was accepted and Amandeep Drall and Vani Kapoor, the top 2 on the 2020-21 combined Order of Merit were chosen. All four players have conveyed their readiness. They have all been regulars on the Hero WPGT and also playing on the Ladies European Tour, besides making starts in South Africa and Australia. Champika Sayal will travel as the Team Principal-cum-Captain.

Simone Asia Pacific Cup: 4 Indian women golfers to compete in tournament

Golfers who have joined the Saudi-backed breakaway LIV Golf Invitational Series will be allowed to play at the Open next month, organisers The R&amp;A said on Wednesday. The PGA Tour has already suspended members who signed up to play with LIV Golf and said any others who make the jump will face the same fate. 
However, they were able to play at the U.S. Open earlier this month. The Open will be played at St Andrews from July 14-17.

"The Open is golf`s original championship and since it was first played in 1860, openness has been fundamental to its ethos and unique appeal," Martin Slumbers, chief executive of The R&amp;A, said in a statement. "Players who are exempt or have earned a place through qualifying for The 150th Open in accordance with the entry terms and conditions will be able to compete in the Championship at St Andrews."

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Several top golfers such as six-times major champion Phil Mickelson, former world number one Dustin Johnson and former U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau joined LIV Golf which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund.

Golfers who have joined the Saudi-backed breakaway LIV Golf Invitational Series will be allowed to play at the Open next month, organisers The R&A said on Wednesday.

Golfers who have joined the Saudi-backed breakaway LIV Golf Invitational Series will be allowed to play at the Open next month, organisers The R&A said on Wednesday. The PGA Tour has already suspended members who signed up to play with LIV Golf and said any others who make the jump will face the same fate. However, they were able to play at the U.S. Open earlier this month. The Open will be played at St Andrews from July 14-17. "The Open is golf`s original championship and since it was first played in 1860, openness has been fundamental to its ethos and unique appeal," Martin Slumbers, chief executive of The R&A, said in a statement. "Players who are exempt or have earned a place through qualifying for The 150th Open in accordance with the entry terms and conditions will be able to compete in the Championship at St Andrews." ALSO READ | New Zealand Rugby undertakes consultation with stakeholders on transgender policy Several top golfers such as six-times major champion Phil Mickelson, former world number one Dustin Johnson and former U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau joined LIV Golf which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund.

LIV Golf players will be allowed to take part at the Open, confirms R&A

England's Matt Fitzpatrick captured his first major title on Sunday by winning the US Open in dramatic fashion, making spectacular shots as rivals crumbled under final-round pressure.

After a thrilling three-man fight down the back nine at The Country Club, Fitzpatrick fired a two-under-par 68 to finish on six-under-par 274 and defeat Americans Scottie Scheffler and Will Zalatoris by one stroke.

"I'm going to say it because I won but I hit some unbelievable shots coming down the stretch and that's what I work for," Fitzpatrick said.

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With perseverance, Fitzpatrick delivered his first professional US victory for a long-sought major trophy.

"It's what you grow up dreaming of," Fitzpatrick said. "It's something I've worked so hard for for such a long time. There was a big monkey on my back trying to win over here and everyone, all they ever talked about was that. To do it as a major for my first win -– there's nothing better."

World number 18 Fitzpatrick, who won the 2013 US Amateur at The Country Club, matched Jack Nicklaus as the only US Open and US Amateur winners on the same course, the US legend doing the double at Pebble Beach.

"It means the world," Fitzpatrick said of the achievement.

The 27-year-old from Sheffield, who shared fifth last month at the PGA Championship for his best prior major result, sank a stunning 48-foot birdie putt at the 13th hole to grab a share of the lead.

At the 15th, Fitzpatrick blasted out of the right rough to just inside 19 feet and rolled in a tension-packed putt to reach 6-under and lead by two thanks to a Zalatoris bogey.

"Got a couple of nice breaks on 15 and took advantage of it and that’s what it took in the end," Fitzpatrick said.

After birdies by top-ranked Masters champion Scheffler at 17 and Zalatoris on 16, Fitzpatrick clung to a one-stroke lead at the 18th tee.

The Englishman sent his tee shot into a left fairway bunker, but blasted a magnificent approach to 18 feet and two putted for par.

"I hit a 3-wood into the bunker and if there was one shot I've struggled with this year that I do not want it's a fairway bunker shot," said Fitzpatrick.

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"I guess ability just took over. It's one of the best shots I've hit of all time. When I saw it leave the sand and felt the strike I couldn't have been happier."

Zalatoris had a 14-foot birdie putt to force a playoff but when he missed, the record $3.15 million top prize went to Fitzpatrick.

"Matt's shot on 18 is going to be shown probably for the rest of US Open history," Zalatoris said.&nbsp;

"I walked by it and thought that going for it was going to be ballsy, but the fact that he pulled it off and even had a birdie look was just incredible. So hats off to him."

Fitzpatrick has had a workout program to boost his driving distance for the past&nbsp;two years, boosting his shotmaking courage.

"I absolutely backed myself 110 per cent," he said. "I feel like I can compete against anyone out here, particularly over the last two years as I've got longer. Hopefully this is the first step in getting even better."

Japan's Hideki Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, fired the best round of the week, a bogey-free 65, to finish fourth on three-under 277.

Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy and two-time major champion Collin Morikawa shared fifth on 278 while second-ranked Spaniard Jon Rahm, the defending champion, shared 12th on 281 after a closing 74.

Scheffler fired a final-round 67 while Zalatoris, now a three-time runner-up in nine major starts, and third-ranked McIlroy each closed on 69 and seventh-ranked Morikawa, the reigning British Open champion, shot 66.

"Tip of the hat to Fitzy," Scheffler said. "He's hitting the ball really well and has been knocking on the door for a long time. He definitely deserves this win."

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&nbsp;LIV four today&nbsp;

Saudi-backed LIV Golf Series players faced US PGA Tour members for the first time this week after the US Golf Association decided not to ban rebels despite suspensions issed by the US PGA Tour.

LIV's 15 players, only four of whom made the cut, were a combined 118-over par.

Two-time major winner Dustin Johnson led the way, firing a 72 to finish on 284.

England's Richard Bland fired a 74 to finish on eight-over 288 with 2018 Masters winner Patrick Reed on 290 after a 74 and 2020 US Open winner Bryson DeChambeau on 293 after a 75.

England's Matt Fitzpatrick captured his first major title on Sunday by winning the US Open in dramatic fashion, making spectacular shots as rivals crumbled under final-round pressure.

England's Matt Fitzpatrick captured his first major title on Sunday by winning the US Open in dramatic fashion, making spectacular shots as rivals crumbled under final-round pressure. After a thrilling three-man fight down the back nine at The Country Club, Fitzpatrick fired a two-under-par 68 to finish on six-under-par 274 and defeat Americans Scottie Scheffler and Will Zalatoris by one stroke. "I'm going to say it because I won but I hit some unbelievable shots coming down the stretch and that's what I work for," Fitzpatrick said. Also read | Golf-Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia to spearhead Europe Ryder Cup defence With perseverance, Fitzpatrick delivered his first professional US victory for a long-sought major trophy. "It's what you grow up dreaming of," Fitzpatrick said. "It's something I've worked so hard for for such a long time. There was a big monkey on my back trying to win over here and everyone, all they ever talked about was that. To do it as a major for my first win -– there's nothing better." World number 18 Fitzpatrick, who won the 2013 US Amateur at The Country Club, matched Jack Nicklaus as the only US Open and US Amateur winners on the same course, the US legend doing the double at Pebble Beach. "It means the world," Fitzpatrick said of the achievement. The 27-year-old from Sheffield, who shared fifth last month at the PGA Championship for his best prior major result, sank a stunning 48-foot birdie putt at the 13th hole to grab a share of the lead. At the 15th, Fitzpatrick blasted out of the right rough to just inside 19 feet and rolled in a tension-packed putt to reach 6-under and lead by two thanks to a Zalatoris bogey. "Got a couple of nice breaks on 15 and took advantage of it and that’s what it took in the end," Fitzpatrick said. After birdies by top-ranked Masters champion Scheffler at 17 and Zalatoris on 16, Fitzpatrick clung to a one-stroke lead at the 18th tee. The Englishman sent his tee shot into a left fairway bunker, but blasted a magnificent approach to 18 feet and two putted for par. "I hit a 3-wood into the bunker and if there was one shot I've struggled with this year that I do not want it's a fairway bunker shot," said Fitzpatrick. Also read | Tokyo Olympics golf: Nelly Korda claims gold medal and another family triumph "I guess ability just took over. It's one of the best shots I've hit of all time. When I saw it leave the sand and felt the strike I couldn't have been happier." Zalatoris had a 14-foot birdie putt to force a playoff but when he missed, the record $3.15 million top prize went to Fitzpatrick. "Matt's shot on 18 is going to be shown probably for the rest of US Open history," Zalatoris said. "I walked by it and thought that going for it was going to be ballsy, but the fact that he pulled it off and even had a birdie look was just incredible. So hats off to him." Fitzpatrick has had a workout program to boost his driving distance for the past two years, boosting his shotmaking courage. "I absolutely backed myself 110 per cent," he said. "I feel like I can compete against anyone out here, particularly over the last two years as I've got longer. Hopefully this is the first step in getting even better." Japan's Hideki Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, fired the best round of the week, a bogey-free 65, to finish fourth on three-under 277. Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy and two-time major champion Collin Morikawa shared fifth on 278 while second-ranked Spaniard Jon Rahm, the defending champion, shared 12th on 281 after a closing 74. Scheffler fired a final-round 67 while Zalatoris, now a three-time runner-up in nine major starts, and third-ranked McIlroy each closed on 69 and seventh-ranked Morikawa, the reigning British Open champion, shot 66. "Tip of the hat to Fitzy," Scheffler said. "He's hitting the ball really well and has been knocking on the door for a long time. He definitely deserves this win." Also read | Tokyo Olympics: Women slowly become more welcome at golf venue LIV four today Saudi-backed LIV Golf Series players faced US PGA Tour members for the first time this week after the US Golf Association decided not to ban rebels despite suspensions issed by the US PGA Tour. LIV's 15 players, only four of whom made the cut, were a combined 118-over par. Two-time major winner Dustin Johnson led the way, firing a 72 to finish on 284. England's Richard Bland fired a 74 to finish on eight-over 288 with 2018 Masters winner Patrick Reed on 290 after a 74 and 2020 US Open winner Bryson DeChambeau on 293 after a 75.

England's Fitzpatrick wins US Open with sensational finish

Saudi Arabia has announced a new golf league to challenge the PGA tour. The attractive prize money has lured a handful of top golfers to the Saudi-backed league. How will this move affect the world of golf? Is this another instance of sports washing? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you.

Gravitas: Saudi league splits top golfers

Phil Mickelson said he had the "deepest of sympathy" for those who had lost loved ones on Sept. 11, 2001 after a coalition of families whose relatives died in the attacks criticised his move to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series.

The PGA Tour last week suspended Mickelson and other members who joined LIV Golf, with Commissioner Jay Monahan saying they had "decided to turn their backs" on the tour. Last week, advocacy group 9/11 Families United sent an open letter to American Mickelson and others who joined LIV Golf, condemning their participation.

Fifteen of the 19 hijackers on Sept. 11 were from Saudi Arabia. The kingdom has long denied a role in the attacks, which killed nearly 3,000 people. "I would say to everyone that has lost loved ones, lost friends on 9/11 that I have deep, deep empathy for them. I can`t emphasise that enough," Mickelson told reporters on Monday ahead of this week`s U.S. Open. "I have the deepest of sympathy and empathy for them."

Terry Strada, the national chair of 9/11 Families United, responded in a statement on Monday, saying Mickelson and his fellow LIV golfers "should be ashamed. "They are helping the Saudi regime `sportswash` their reputation in return for tens of millions of dollars," he said.

`ONE OR BOTH` 
Mickelson was a long-time fan favourite but faced a barrage of disapproval after remarks were made public earlier this year in which he criticised the Saudi government for its "horrible" human rights record but said he would use the prospect of LIV Golf to gain economic leverage over the PGA Tour.

Mickelson apologised for his remarks and announced in February that he was taking time away from the game, opting out of the Masters and his title defence at the PGA Championship. Saudi Arabia`s government denies accusations of human rights abuses.

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Mickelson also suggested he was hopeful that he could compete on the PGA Tour again, despite his suspension. "(I`m) very appreciative of the many memories, opportunities, experiences, friendships, relationships PGA Tour has provided, and those are going to last -- those will last a lifetime, but I`m hopeful that I`ll have a chance to create more," he said.

Mickelson, who has finished runner-up six times at the U.S. Open and will get another shot at completing the career Grand Slam on his 30th attempt at the Country Club in Brookline, said he respected those who have "strong opinions."

The American said he planned to compete in next month`s Open Championship at St Andrews and would prefer to have the option to play "one or both" tours. "I gave as much back to the PGA Tour and the game of golf as I could throughout my 30 years here and through my accomplishments on the course I`ve earned a lifetime membership," he said. "I intend to keep that and then choose going forward which events to play and not."

Phil Mickelson said he had the "deepest of sympathy" for those who had lost loved ones on Sept. 11, 2001 after a coalition of families whose relatives died in the attacks criticised his move to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series.

Phil Mickelson said he had the "deepest of sympathy" for those who had lost loved ones on Sept. 11, 2001 after a coalition of families whose relatives died in the attacks criticised his move to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series. The PGA Tour last week suspended Mickelson and other members who joined LIV Golf, with Commissioner Jay Monahan saying they had "decided to turn their backs" on the tour. Last week, advocacy group 9/11 Families United sent an open letter to American Mickelson and others who joined LIV Golf, condemning their participation. Fifteen of the 19 hijackers on Sept. 11 were from Saudi Arabia. The kingdom has long denied a role in the attacks, which killed nearly 3,000 people. "I would say to everyone that has lost loved ones, lost friends on 9/11 that I have deep, deep empathy for them. I can`t emphasise that enough," Mickelson told reporters on Monday ahead of this week`s U.S. Open. "I have the deepest of sympathy and empathy for them." Terry Strada, the national chair of 9/11 Families United, responded in a statement on Monday, saying Mickelson and his fellow LIV golfers "should be ashamed. "They are helping the Saudi regime `sportswash` their reputation in return for tens of millions of dollars," he said. `ONE OR BOTH` Mickelson was a long-time fan favourite but faced a barrage of disapproval after remarks were made public earlier this year in which he criticised the Saudi government for its "horrible" human rights record but said he would use the prospect of LIV Golf to gain economic leverage over the PGA Tour. Mickelson apologised for his remarks and announced in February that he was taking time away from the game, opting out of the Masters and his title defence at the PGA Championship. Saudi Arabia`s government denies accusations of human rights abuses. ALSO READ | Billionaires club sees new addition with Tiger Woods joining Michael Jordan, LeBron James Mickelson also suggested he was hopeful that he could compete on the PGA Tour again, despite his suspension. "(I`m) very appreciative of the many memories, opportunities, experiences, friendships, relationships PGA Tour has provided, and those are going to last -- those will last a lifetime, but I`m hopeful that I`ll have a chance to create more," he said. Mickelson, who has finished runner-up six times at the U.S. Open and will get another shot at completing the career Grand Slam on his 30th attempt at the Country Club in Brookline, said he respected those who have "strong opinions." The American said he planned to compete in next month`s Open Championship at St Andrews and would prefer to have the option to play "one or both" tours. "I gave as much back to the PGA Tour and the game of golf as I could throughout my 30 years here and through my accomplishments on the course I`ve earned a lifetime membership," he said. "I intend to keep that and then choose going forward which events to play and not."

'I have deepest of sympathy....' - Phil Mickelson on 9/11 families who slam move to Saudi-backed tour

Tiger Woods remains a big name in the sporting fraternity. At 46, his stocks have not yet gone down despite having a very lengthy and topsy-turvy career. Recently, Woods added another feather to his illustrious hat by joining&nbsp;Michael Jordan and LeBron James in a select group of elite athletes with a net worth of at least $1 billion, business magazine Forbes reported.

Woods -- the 15-times major winner -- has made over a whopping $1.7 billion in prize money, endorsements and other ventures, as per the&nbsp;Forbes.

For the unversed, the&nbsp;46-year-old Woods is levelled with Sam Snead for the most wins on the PGA Tour with 82. However, the&nbsp;Forbes pointed out that&nbsp;his winnings from golf comprise&nbsp;less than 10% of his career earnings. Thus, the bulk of his net worth is courtesy of endorsements with some top brands such as Nike and Rolex. The veteran American professional golfer has achieved billionaire status despite not even being involved in the Saudi-backed and cash-rich LIV Golf Invitational Series, which has made heads turn recently.

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Earlier, the six-times NBA champion Jordan was the first athlete to reach the elite club. He was followed by&nbsp;four-times NBA champion LeBron James in early June&nbsp;after the magazine estimated the Los Angeles Lakers superstar's worth at $1 billion. He, thus, became the first&nbsp;active NBA player worth $1 billion.

Tiger Woods remains a big name in the sporting fraternity. At 46, his stocks have not yet gone down despite having a very lengthy and topsy-turvy career. Recently, Woods added another feather to his illustrious hat by joining Michael Jordan and LeBron James in a select group of elite athletes with a net worth of at least $1 billion, business magazine Forbes reported.

Tiger Woods remains a big name in the sporting fraternity. At 46, his stocks have not yet gone down despite having a very lengthy and topsy-turvy career. Recently, Woods added another feather to his illustrious hat by joining Michael Jordan and LeBron James in a select group of elite athletes with a net worth of at least $1 billion, business magazine Forbes reported. Woods -- the 15-times major winner -- has made over a whopping $1.7 billion in prize money, endorsements and other ventures, as per the Forbes. For the unversed, the 46-year-old Woods is levelled with Sam Snead for the most wins on the PGA Tour with 82. However, the Forbes pointed out that his winnings from golf comprise less than 10% of his career earnings. Thus, the bulk of his net worth is courtesy of endorsements with some top brands such as Nike and Rolex. The veteran American professional golfer has achieved billionaire status despite not even being involved in the Saudi-backed and cash-rich LIV Golf Invitational Series, which has made heads turn recently. ALSO READ | LA Lakers superstar LeBron James creates history, becomes 1st active NBA player worth $1 billion Earlier, the six-times NBA champion Jordan was the first athlete to reach the elite club. He was followed by four-times NBA champion LeBron James in early June after the magazine estimated the Los Angeles Lakers superstar's worth at $1 billion. He, thus, became the first active NBA player worth $1 billion.

Billionaires club sees new addition with Tiger Woods joining Michael Jordan, LeBron James

American Danielle Kang, ranked 12th in the world, will be&nbsp;sidelined from the&nbsp;LPGA&nbsp;Tour indefinitely with a tumor on her spine. The 29-year-old US Solheim Cup veteran announced on social media late Tuesday she will be stepping away to focus on her health.

"I wanted to have some answers before it became public information and unfortunately in many ways, I've learned some things just don't play out as planned," Kang said. Kang said she will not compete at this week's ShopRite&nbsp;LPGA&nbsp;Classic and would not play again before next month's Evian Championship in France at the earliest.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-body-needs-more-time-tiger-woods-pulls-out-of-us-open-next-week-to-continue-his-recovery-486050">'My body needs more time': Tiger Woods pulls out of US Open next week to continue his recovery</a>

That means missing this month's Women's PGA Championship, an event she won in 2017 for her only major crown. "I want to compete, not just participate," Kang said. "I will be taking some more time to get back to 100%."

Kang won the most recent of her six career titles at this year's&nbsp;LPGA&nbsp;Tournament of Champions.

American Danielle Kang, ranked 12th in the world, will be sidelined from the LPGA Tour indefinitely with a tumor on her spine. The 29-year-old US Solheim Cup veteran announced on social media late Tuesday she will be stepping away to focus on her health.

American Danielle Kang, ranked 12th in the world, will be sidelined from the LPGA Tour indefinitely with a tumor on her spine. The 29-year-old US Solheim Cup veteran announced on social media late Tuesday she will be stepping away to focus on her health. "I wanted to have some answers before it became public information and unfortunately in many ways, I've learned some things just don't play out as planned," Kang said. Kang said she will not compete at this week's ShopRite LPGA Classic and would not play again before next month's Evian Championship in France at the earliest. ALSO READ | 'My body needs more time': Tiger Woods pulls out of US Open next week to continue his recovery That means missing this month's Women's PGA Championship, an event she won in 2017 for her only major crown. "I want to compete, not just participate," Kang said. "I will be taking some more time to get back to 100%." Kang won the most recent of her six career titles at this year's LPGA Tournament of Champions.

Spinal tumor to keep World No. 12 Danielle Kang off LPGA Tour indefinitely

The PGA Tour has suspended all current and future players who have decided to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series that began on Thursday. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan sent a letter to members that said those who join the lucrative breakaway series will not be permitted to play on the U.S.-based circuit as a non-member via a sponsor exemption or any other eligibility category.

Among the players who have already joined LIV Golf are Phil Mickelson, who counts six major championships among his 45 PGA Tour wins, and former world number one Dustin Johnson. "These players have made their choice for their own financial-based reasons. But they can`t demand the same PGA Tour membership benefits, considerations, opportunities and platform as you," Monahan said in the letter to PGA Tour members. "That expectation disrespects you, our fans and our partners. You have made a different choice, which is to abide by the Tournament Regulations you agreed to when you accomplished the dream of earning a PGA Tour card and – more importantly – to compete as part of the preeminent organization in the world of professional golf."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spinal-tumor-to-keep-world-no-12-danielle-kang-off-lpga-tour-indefinitely-486449">Spinal tumor to keep World No. 12 Danielle Kang off LPGA Tour indefinitely</a>

Both the PGA Tour and DP World Tour had declined requests from members who had asked for releases to compete at Centurion Club this week outside London where $25 million is up for grabs, including $4 million for the winner. The decision by the PGA Tour triggered a quick and scathing response from LIV Golf. "Today`s announcement by the PGA Tour is vindictive and it deepens the divide between the Tour and its members," LIV Golf said in a statement.

"It`s troubling that the Tour, an organization dedicated to creating opportunities for golfers to play the game, is the entity blocking golfers from playing. "This certainly is not the last word on this topic. The era of free agency is beginning as we are proud to have a full field of players joining us in London, and beyond."

The decision by the PGA Tour, which does not run golf`s four majors, came after the United States Golf Association said it would allow LIV golfers who to play in next week`s U.S. Open if they are exempt or had already qualified.

The PGA Tour has suspended all current and future players who have decided to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series that began on Thursday. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan sent a letter to members that said those who join the lucrative breakaway series will not be permitted to play on the U.

The PGA Tour has suspended all current and future players who have decided to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series that began on Thursday. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan sent a letter to members that said those who join the lucrative breakaway series will not be permitted to play on the U.S.-based circuit as a non-member via a sponsor exemption or any other eligibility category. Among the players who have already joined LIV Golf are Phil Mickelson, who counts six major championships among his 45 PGA Tour wins, and former world number one Dustin Johnson. "These players have made their choice for their own financial-based reasons. But they can`t demand the same PGA Tour membership benefits, considerations, opportunities and platform as you," Monahan said in the letter to PGA Tour members. "That expectation disrespects you, our fans and our partners. You have made a different choice, which is to abide by the Tournament Regulations you agreed to when you accomplished the dream of earning a PGA Tour card and – more importantly – to compete as part of the preeminent organization in the world of professional golf." ALSO READ | Spinal tumor to keep World No. 12 Danielle Kang off LPGA Tour indefinitely Both the PGA Tour and DP World Tour had declined requests from members who had asked for releases to compete at Centurion Club this week outside London where $25 million is up for grabs, including $4 million for the winner. The decision by the PGA Tour triggered a quick and scathing response from LIV Golf. "Today`s announcement by the PGA Tour is vindictive and it deepens the divide between the Tour and its members," LIV Golf said in a statement. "It`s troubling that the Tour, an organization dedicated to creating opportunities for golfers to play the game, is the entity blocking golfers from playing. "This certainly is not the last word on this topic. The era of free agency is beginning as we are proud to have a full field of players joining us in London, and beyond." The decision by the PGA Tour, which does not run golf`s four majors, came after the United States Golf Association said it would allow LIV golfers who to play in next week`s U.S. Open if they are exempt or had already qualified.

PGA Tour suspends players, including Phil Mickelson, who joined LIV Golf circuit - Here's why

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