Acknowledging the possibility that most LIV Golf players won't be allowed entry to the sports' top events, Saudi Golf Federation CEO Majed Al Sorour said the new circuit might create its own majors. In an article published Tuesday, Sorour told the New Yorker, "For now, the majors are siding with the (PGA) Tour, and I don't know why. If the majors decide not to have our players play? I will celebrate. I will create my own majors for my players. Honestly, I think all the tours are being run by guys who don't understand business."

Players who left the PGA Tour for Saudi-backed LIV Golf this year were suspended from the U.S.-based circuit. LIV is attempting to get its events sanctioned by the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), which could put its players in line to make the 2023 majors on the merits of their LIV results.

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Thus far, though, the OWGR has yet to approve LIV events for its formula despite LIV recently teaming with the MENA Tour of Middle Eastern and North African events. Sorour told the New Yorker that LIV's plans were nearly scuttled after Phil Mickelson was quoted decrying Saudi Arabia's human-rights history. "I called the boss (Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the governor of the Saudi Public Investment Fund) and said, 'Everyone's walking away. Do you want to do it or not?'" Sorour said, according to the New Yorker. "Get the biggest mediocres, get the 10 (players) that we have, get you and I, and let's go play for $25 million."

Ultimately, LIV was able to attract Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, Patrick Reed, Bubba Watson, Cameron Smith, Sergio Garcia and Lee Westwood, among others. One player they didn't sign was Tiger Woods. While LIV Golf chief executive officer Greg Norman told Fox News in August that Woods declined an offer of between $700 million and $800 million, Sorour denied that report. "It's not straight-out money," Sorour told the New Yorker. "I never offered him that money -- not even close to that."

Acknowledging the possibility that most LIV Golf players won't be allowed entry to the sports' top events, Saudi Golf Federation CEO Majed Al Sorour said the new circuit might create its own majors.

Acknowledging the possibility that most LIV Golf players won't be allowed entry to the sports' top events, Saudi Golf Federation CEO Majed Al Sorour said the new circuit might create its own majors. In an article published Tuesday, Sorour told the New Yorker, "For now, the majors are siding with the (PGA) Tour, and I don't know why. If the majors decide not to have our players play? I will celebrate. I will create my own majors for my players. Honestly, I think all the tours are being run by guys who don't understand business." Players who left the PGA Tour for Saudi-backed LIV Golf this year were suspended from the U.S.-based circuit. LIV is attempting to get its events sanctioned by the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), which could put its players in line to make the 2023 majors on the merits of their LIV results. ALSO READ | Keegan Bradley staves off Rickie Fowler, Andrew Putnam to win Zozo golf Championship Thus far, though, the OWGR has yet to approve LIV events for its formula despite LIV recently teaming with the MENA Tour of Middle Eastern and North African events. Sorour told the New Yorker that LIV's plans were nearly scuttled after Phil Mickelson was quoted decrying Saudi Arabia's human-rights history. "I called the boss (Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the governor of the Saudi Public Investment Fund) and said, 'Everyone's walking away. Do you want to do it or not?'" Sorour said, according to the New Yorker. "Get the biggest mediocres, get the 10 (players) that we have, get you and I, and let's go play for $25 million." Ultimately, LIV was able to attract Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, Patrick Reed, Bubba Watson, Cameron Smith, Sergio Garcia and Lee Westwood, among others. One player they didn't sign was Tiger Woods. While LIV Golf chief executive officer Greg Norman told Fox News in August that Woods declined an offer of between $700 million and $800 million, Sorour denied that report. "It's not straight-out money," Sorour told the New Yorker. "I never offered him that money -- not even close to that."

LIV plans to create its own majors for players who left PGA, says Saudi Golf CEO

Six-times major winner Phil Mickelson said he loves his decision of joining the Saudi-backed breakaway LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Series, which he believes is "trending upwards" while the PGA Tour will be "trending downwards". The LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Series, which launched in June, has lured away some of the sport's biggest names with enormous purses while those who joined the rebel circuit are no longer eligible to participate in PGA Tour events.

Mickelson said that during his heyday, the best players in the world competed on the PGA Tour but that will never be the case again. "I think going forward you have to pick a side. You have to pick what side do you think is going to be successful," Mickelson told reporters at the LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Invitational Series in Jeddah on Thursday. "I firmly believe that I'm on the winning side of how things are going to evolve and shape in the coming years for professional&nbsp;golf."

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Last month, the PGA Tour accused LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;of using antitrust laws "as a cudgel" and undermining its contracts with players in a counterclaim to a lawsuit the Saudi-backed circuit filed. In a lawsuit filed in August, LIV&nbsp;Golf, Mickelson and 10 other players accused the PGA Tour of antitrust violations.

"Until both sides sit down and have a conversation and work something out, both sides are going to continue to change and evolve," Mickelson added. "And I see LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;trending upwards, I see the PGA Tour trending downwards and I love the side that I'm on... I love the way they involve us and listen to us in decisions. It's so inclusive, it's so fluid."

Six-times major winner Phil Mickelson said he loves his decision of joining the Saudi-backed breakaway LIV Golf Series, which he believes is "trending upwards" while the PGA Tour will be "trending downwards".

Six-times major winner Phil Mickelson said he loves his decision of joining the Saudi-backed breakaway LIV Golf Series, which he believes is "trending upwards" while the PGA Tour will be "trending downwards". The LIV Golf Series, which launched in June, has lured away some of the sport's biggest names with enormous purses while those who joined the rebel circuit are no longer eligible to participate in PGA Tour events. Mickelson said that during his heyday, the best players in the world competed on the PGA Tour but that will never be the case again. "I think going forward you have to pick a side. You have to pick what side do you think is going to be successful," Mickelson told reporters at the LIV Golf Invitational Series in Jeddah on Thursday. "I firmly believe that I'm on the winning side of how things are going to evolve and shape in the coming years for professional golf." ALSO READ | Twice major winner Dustin Johnson pockets $18 million as inaugural LIV Series champion Last month, the PGA Tour accused LIV Golf of using antitrust laws "as a cudgel" and undermining its contracts with players in a counterclaim to a lawsuit the Saudi-backed circuit filed. In a lawsuit filed in August, LIV Golf, Mickelson and 10 other players accused the PGA Tour of antitrust violations. "Until both sides sit down and have a conversation and work something out, both sides are going to continue to change and evolve," Mickelson added. "And I see LIV Golf trending upwards, I see the PGA Tour trending downwards and I love the side that I'm on... I love the way they involve us and listen to us in decisions. It's so inclusive, it's so fluid."

LIV Series is 'trending upwards', says six-time major winner Phil Mickelson

Former U.S. Open champion Graeme McDowell said on Wednesday (October 12) that the world rankings system will become inaccurate and irrelevant if points are not awarded for events on the LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Series. LIV&nbsp;Golf, which is backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, submitted an application to the Official World&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Ranking (OWGR) board in July, and earlier this month formed an alliance with the MENA Tour in a bid to fast-track its quest for ranking points.

The OWGR said it would make a decision after reviewing changes to the MENA Tour, prompting LIV&nbsp;golfers to say it was dragging its feet. Two-time major winner Dustin Johnson clinched the individual title in the LIV event in Bangkok on Sunday and McDowell said failure to award him ranking points meant the two-time major winner was not in his proper spot.

"This guy standing in the middle (Dustin Johnson) of the three of us, if his world ranking is inaccurate then the whole system's inaccurate," McDowell told a news conference on Wednesday, speaking alongside Johnson and Harold Varner III. "I feel like LIV tried to do everything they possibly can to be legitimate in the eyes of the OWGR. "The word 'Official' has to go away from OWGR if they don't take care of the players out here."

Johnson, whose ranking has dropped to 24th from third at the end of 2021, pocketed $18 million after clinching the individual LIV title with a 16th-place finish in Bangkok. "The longer it takes obviously the more irrelevant it becomes for us. Because if you wait too long, all our rankings are going to drop so much that it's not even going to really, it's not going to matter for us," Johnson said.

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Asked if he regretted joining LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;after earning around $30 million, Johnson replied sarcastically. "I really regret my decision to come here. It's just so terrible. I'm sitting there last night thinking about it, it was really bothering me a lot. Yeah, I just can't get over it." LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;has lured away some of the U.S.-based PGA Tour's top members with huge sums of money, leading to a simmering feud between the sport's top players and organisers.

Players who compete in the breakaway series have been suspended from the PGA Tour. Attempts of Europe's DP World Tour to follow suit have so far been unsuccessful with LIV players still eligible to compete at its showcase events pending a court hearing next year.

On Tuesday, former Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama said he was "fully committed" to the PGA Tour but thought&nbsp;golfers competing on the LIV should be eligible for ranking points. LIV's individual competition concludes in Jeddah from Oct. 14-16 before a final team championship in Miami.

Former U.S. Open champion Graeme McDowell said on Wednesday (October 12) that the world rankings system will become inaccurate and irrelevant if points are not awarded for events on the LIV Golf Series.

Former U.S. Open champion Graeme McDowell said on Wednesday (October 12) that the world rankings system will become inaccurate and irrelevant if points are not awarded for events on the LIV Golf Series. LIV Golf, which is backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, submitted an application to the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) board in July, and earlier this month formed an alliance with the MENA Tour in a bid to fast-track its quest for ranking points. The OWGR said it would make a decision after reviewing changes to the MENA Tour, prompting LIV golfers to say it was dragging its feet. Two-time major winner Dustin Johnson clinched the individual title in the LIV event in Bangkok on Sunday and McDowell said failure to award him ranking points meant the two-time major winner was not in his proper spot. "This guy standing in the middle (Dustin Johnson) of the three of us, if his world ranking is inaccurate then the whole system's inaccurate," McDowell told a news conference on Wednesday, speaking alongside Johnson and Harold Varner III. "I feel like LIV tried to do everything they possibly can to be legitimate in the eyes of the OWGR. "The word 'Official' has to go away from OWGR if they don't take care of the players out here." Johnson, whose ranking has dropped to 24th from third at the end of 2021, pocketed $18 million after clinching the individual LIV title with a 16th-place finish in Bangkok. "The longer it takes obviously the more irrelevant it becomes for us. Because if you wait too long, all our rankings are going to drop so much that it's not even going to really, it's not going to matter for us," Johnson said. ALSO READ | Twice major winner Dustin Johnson pockets $18 million as inaugural LIV Series champion Asked if he regretted joining LIV Golf after earning around $30 million, Johnson replied sarcastically. "I really regret my decision to come here. It's just so terrible. I'm sitting there last night thinking about it, it was really bothering me a lot. Yeah, I just can't get over it." LIV Golf has lured away some of the U.S.-based PGA Tour's top members with huge sums of money, leading to a simmering feud between the sport's top players and organisers. Players who compete in the breakaway series have been suspended from the PGA Tour. Attempts of Europe's DP World Tour to follow suit have so far been unsuccessful with LIV players still eligible to compete at its showcase events pending a court hearing next year. On Tuesday, former Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama said he was "fully committed" to the PGA Tour but thought golfers competing on the LIV should be eligible for ranking points. LIV's individual competition concludes in Jeddah from Oct. 14-16 before a final team championship in Miami.

World rankings inaccurate if LIV events snubbed, says former US champion Graeme McDowell

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The PGA Tour-LIV Golf face-off is far from getting over. The PGA Tour had recently accused LIV Golf of using antitrust laws "as a cudgel" and undermining its contracts with players in a counterclaim to a lawsuit the Saudi-backed circuit filed in September. LIV Golf has acquired the services of some of the PGA Tour's top members -- including six-times major winner Phil Mickelson with enormous purses -- whereas others who followed suit and joined the rebel circuit have been suspended by the miffed PGA Tour.&nbsp;

Earlier, Mickelson and 10 other players had accused the PGA Tour of antitrust violations. In its counterclaim, the PGA Tour had pointed out that the golfers were aware of not having any unilateral right to defect, and that breaching their contracts would lead to suspensions. "(This case) is a cynical effort to avoid competition and to freeride off of the Tour’s investment in the development of professional golf."

"LIV has openly sought to damage the Tour’s business relationships with its members by inducing them to breach their contractual requirements. Even going so far as to pay members' legal fees to make breaching their contracts with Tour more enticing," the Tour said.

Hence, a lot has transpired ever since LIV Golf has come into existence. The Saudi-backed circuit's CEO and legendary figure Greg Norman spoke at length and slammed the 'monopolists' of the game, reacted to the world rankings being denied to LIV Golf players and more during an exclusive interaction with Wion's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo (on the sidelines of the&nbsp;sixth event of LIV Golf's inaugural season in Bangkok, Thailand).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-liv-golf-as-players-denied-ranking-points-523073">Big blow to LIV Golf as players denied ranking points</a>

On being asked about the court cases being filed on both sides and how dirty it has become between LIV Golf and PGA Tour, Norman said, "It is back to the monopolists. They can't break us down because golf is a force for good. If someone wants to smear you then shame on you. Don't be a hypocrite. The PGA tour has 27 sponsors that too have tons or billions of dollars of business in Saudi. Why can those sponsors be there and not with LIV? Golf Saudi is the largest sponsor of women's golf. Why is it not good for&nbsp;48 men but good for them or the US govt to do deals with Saudi? I feel very good about where I am and with the product. I am content with what I am doing for the game of golf."

The 67-year-old also opined on LIV Golf players being denied ranking points, as revealed by the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) organisation on Thursday (October 06). "Not a setback. My players should have world-ranking points. "It doesn't make sense from a major or broadcaster. You are paying for your strength in the field. By not allowing LIV players points, you are degrading the game of golf. It is not doing the game of golf any good," he mentioned.

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On fighting the battle versus the LIV Golf critics, Norman says he has remained calm and is confident in his product. "It's not frustrating. You can't run through a brick wall without being bloody. this wall has been running for 53. No tour owns the game of golf. We want golf to be beneficial to what we can give. It will work out. LIV is not going anywhere. We will keep growing. There will be a change in momentum. This is a beta year, a test year. Our future is extremely loud and bright."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-kerry-packer-revolutionised-cricket-and-ipl-came-out-of-it-says-greg-norman-on-liv-golf-model-523306">Exclusive: Kerry Packer revolutionised cricket and IPL came out of it, says Greg Norman on LIV Golf model</a>

With LIV Golf targeting to take the game to all parts of the world and targeting the highly-potent Asian market for the sport's expansion, Norman made a bold claim and said, "America is not the be-all-end-all&nbsp;of golf. Asia is the sleeping giant of golf. 60% of golf course construction is between middle east Asia and far east Asia. We working on our business model on that side. We can better improve where we can get a better return on investment."

"Franchise space has never been done in golf. Golf was the same 72 holes. The player did not make money earlier. That model is old. We have space like cricket like the IPL or NHL or NBA where the franchise model creates value. Golf is the only sport that does not have the opportunity to have pe money coming in. Bigger the franchise bigger the place. Self-fulfilling prophecy. The investor will deliver a multiple.&nbsp;The world has made a statement by supporting us. we are delivering. We will keep improving," Norman, the winner of 81 professional tournaments, concluded.

The PGA Tour-LIV Golf face-off is far from getting over. The PGA Tour had recently accused LIV Golf of using antitrust laws "as a cudgel" and undermining its contracts with players in a counterclaim to a lawsuit the Saudi-backed circuit filed in September.

The PGA Tour-LIV Golf face-off is far from getting over. The PGA Tour had recently accused LIV Golf of using antitrust laws "as a cudgel" and undermining its contracts with players in a counterclaim to a lawsuit the Saudi-backed circuit filed in September. LIV Golf has acquired the services of some of the PGA Tour's top members -- including six-times major winner Phil Mickelson with enormous purses -- whereas others who followed suit and joined the rebel circuit have been suspended by the miffed PGA Tour. Earlier, Mickelson and 10 other players had accused the PGA Tour of antitrust violations. In its counterclaim, the PGA Tour had pointed out that the golfers were aware of not having any unilateral right to defect, and that breaching their contracts would lead to suspensions. "(This case) is a cynical effort to avoid competition and to freeride off of the Tour’s investment in the development of professional golf." "LIV has openly sought to damage the Tour’s business relationships with its members by inducing them to breach their contractual requirements. Even going so far as to pay members' legal fees to make breaching their contracts with Tour more enticing," the Tour said. Hence, a lot has transpired ever since LIV Golf has come into existence. The Saudi-backed circuit's CEO and legendary figure Greg Norman spoke at length and slammed the 'monopolists' of the game, reacted to the world rankings being denied to LIV Golf players and more during an exclusive interaction with Wion's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo (on the sidelines of the sixth event of LIV Golf's inaugural season in Bangkok, Thailand). ALSO READ | Big blow to LIV Golf as players denied ranking points On being asked about the court cases being filed on both sides and how dirty it has become between LIV Golf and PGA Tour, Norman said, "It is back to the monopolists. They can't break us down because golf is a force for good. If someone wants to smear you then shame on you. Don't be a hypocrite. The PGA tour has 27 sponsors that too have tons or billions of dollars of business in Saudi. Why can those sponsors be there and not with LIV? Golf Saudi is the largest sponsor of women's golf. Why is it not good for 48 men but good for them or the US govt to do deals with Saudi? I feel very good about where I am and with the product. I am content with what I am doing for the game of golf." The 67-year-old also opined on LIV Golf players being denied ranking points, as revealed by the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) organisation on Thursday (October 06). "Not a setback. My players should have world-ranking points. "It doesn't make sense from a major or broadcaster. You are paying for your strength in the field. By not allowing LIV players points, you are degrading the game of golf. It is not doing the game of golf any good," he mentioned. × On fighting the battle versus the LIV Golf critics, Norman says he has remained calm and is confident in his product. "It's not frustrating. You can't run through a brick wall without being bloody. this wall has been running for 53. No tour owns the game of golf. We want golf to be beneficial to what we can give. It will work out. LIV is not going anywhere. We will keep growing. There will be a change in momentum. This is a beta year, a test year. Our future is extremely loud and bright." ALSO READ | Exclusive: Kerry Packer revolutionised cricket and IPL came out of it, says Greg Norman on LIV Golf model With LIV Golf targeting to take the game to all parts of the world and targeting the highly-potent Asian market for the sport's expansion, Norman made a bold claim and said, "America is not the be-all-end-all of golf. Asia is the sleeping giant of golf. 60% of golf course construction is between middle east Asia and far east Asia. We working on our business model on that side. We can better improve where we can get a better return on investment." "Franchise space has never been done in golf. Golf was the same 72 holes. The player did not make money earlier. That model is old. We have space like cricket like the IPL or NHL or NBA where the franchise model creates value. Golf is the only sport that does not have the opportunity to have pe money coming in. Bigger the franchise bigger the place. Self-fulfilling prophecy. The investor will deliver a multiple. The world has made a statement by supporting us. we are delivering. We will keep improving," Norman, the winner of 81 professional tournaments, concluded.

Exclusive | Asia is sleeping giant to help game reach non-traditional destinations: LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman

A lot has transpired in golf in recent times. Since the inception of LIV Golf, it has left the golf world divided with the PGA Tour currently being involved in a court tussle with the rival tour. The PGA Tour had recently countersued Greg Norman's LIV, alleging that the rival golf circuit is using unfair practices by attracting players courtesy of whopping deals.

On the other hand, LIV Golf remains unperturbed by distractions or outside noises. Ahead of the&nbsp;2022 LIV Golf event in Bangkok, Thailand (i.e. the sixth event of its inaugural season), WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo caught up with Spain's Sergio Garcia. The 42-year-old, who has won 36 international tournaments as a professional and&nbsp;is arguably Europe's greatest Ryder Cup player, spoke at length&nbsp;on the divide in the sport due to LIV Golf vs PGA Tour, on joining the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit&nbsp;and chances of playing in the Ryder Cup.

"We are super excited (about joining the LIV Golf series) about where we are headed. Yes (we are pioneers). LIV Golf has given us an opportunity to be that. We are really confident that this is the right decision. On being asked if there&nbsp;was there something in the game that wasn't right, leading to LIV Golf Series,&nbsp;Garcia said, "Not really. I think some things could've been done differently with more energy and focus on younger generations. If you look at the age average for LIV, compared to the European or PGA Tour, it is much younger. At the end of the day, we try to encourage and get those young people to follow the game. LIV Golf is doing that. We are happy to do it."

When asked if he is surprised by PGA's 'this is my turf, nobody can be on it' policy, the veteran Sergio said, "Well, the game of golf is global. It belongs to everybody. They tried to do something for their benefit, but we will also try to do whatever best is possible." On the overall reaction and flak coming towards LIV Series, the Spaniard opined, "We knew something of this was going to happen. But that's ok. We are all grown up. We all know what is best for the game and best for our families. Apart from that, it is all white noise."

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Coming up today on <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a> a chat with 2017 <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMasters?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheMasters</a> Champion <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSergioGarcia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheSergioGarcia</a> . I broke the ice by chatting about <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadriden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realmadriden</a> before we rolled. That worked out well. <a href="https://twitter.com/LIVGolfInv?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LIVGolfInv</a> <a href="https://t.co/A9YmSxuRza">pic.twitter.com/A9YmSxuRza</a>
— Digvijay Singh Deo (@DiggySinghDeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo/status/1577904694072315905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-we-saw-the-vision-ian-poulter-explains-his-decision-to-join-liv-golf-stirs-world-ranking-debate-522772">EXCLUSIVE! We saw the vision: Ian Poulter explains his decision to join LIV Golf, stirs world ranking debate</a>

LIV's strategic alliance with META

On Thursday (October 06), a big announcement came in. LIV&nbsp;Golf players will now earn world ranking points starting this week after the developmental MENA (the Middle East and North Africa) Tour forged&nbsp;a strategic alliance with the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit.&nbsp;

"We are taking this mutually beneficial action to support the game at the developmental level and because of the importance and fairness of&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;golfers qualifying for OWGR points,"&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf President Atul Khosla said in a MENA Tour news release. "We're pleased to create pathways that give more opportunities for young players, while also giving fans rankings that include all the world’s best golfers."

Regarding this development, Sergio stated, "It is big. Super exciting. For younger players who don't have majors and want to hold onto their rankings and get rewarded for their good play, so that they can have eligibility to play the majors, thus, we are super excited about that."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liv-golfers-set-to-earn-ranking-points-after-strategic-alliance-with-mena-tour-522936">LIV golfers set to earn ranking points after strategic alliance with MENA Tour</a>

Will Sergio Garcia feature in the Ryder Cup?

With Sergio joining LIV Golf, this&nbsp;could well lead to the end of his career competing in blue and gold. He signed off by saying, "I would love to (play). Unfortunately, that won't come down to me. It depends on the European tour, the captain and the people involved there. We will see what happens." It is to be noted that the superstar golfer has been&nbsp;given until Friday (October 07) to make a decision.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big blow to LIV Golf as players denied ranking points

LIV&nbsp;Golf players are set to earn world ranking points starting this week after the developmental MENA (Middle East and North Africa) Tour said on Wednesday it had formed a strategic alliance with the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit. LIV&nbsp;Golf is holding the sixth event of its inaugural season this week just north of Bangkok and the MENA Tour said those competing at Stonehill Golf Course will immediately qualify for official world ranking points.

As part of the alliance,&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf invitational events will become part of, and sanctioned by, the MENA Tour which is among the eligible tours listed on the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) website. 
 
"We are taking this mutually beneficial action to support the game at the developmental level and because of the importance and fairness of&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;golfers qualifying for OWGR points,"&nbsp; LIV&nbsp;Golf President Atul Khosla said in a MENA Tour news release. "We're pleased to create pathways that give more opportunities for young players, while also giving fans rankings that include all the world’s best golfers."

This week's&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf event, which will feature big-name players like world number three Cameron Smith and twice major winner Dustin Johnson, is not listed on the OWGR website among the events receiving points. Without the ability to earn points, which carry significant weight when it comes to gaining entry into golf's four majors, those competing on&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf will tumble down the rankings and be at risk of missing the blue-riband events.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-we-saw-the-vision-ian-poulter-explains-his-decision-to-join-liv-golf-stirs-world-ranking-debate-522772">EXCLUSIVE! We saw the vision: Ian Poulter explains his decision to join LIV Golf, stirs world ranking debate</a>

Last month, all 48 players who competed at&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf's event outside Chicago sent a joint letter to OWGR Chairman Peter Dawson urging him to award ranking points to competitors on the Saudi Arabia-backed series. According to the OWGR website, the ranking points breakdown is derived from each tournament's total field rating and points are awarded to players who make the cut and complete an event, subject to their finishing position in the tournament.

LIV&nbsp;Golf's 54-hole events do not have a cut. The&nbsp;LIV&nbsp;Golf series is bankrolled by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund and critics have accused it of being a vehicle for the country to attempt to improve its reputation in the face of criticism of its human rights record.

LIV Golf players are set to earn world ranking points starting this week after the developmental MENA (Middle East and North Africa) Tour said on Wednesday it had formed a strategic alliance with the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit.

LIV Golf players are set to earn world ranking points starting this week after the developmental MENA (Middle East and North Africa) Tour said on Wednesday it had formed a strategic alliance with the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit. LIV Golf is holding the sixth event of its inaugural season this week just north of Bangkok and the MENA Tour said those competing at Stonehill Golf Course will immediately qualify for official world ranking points. As part of the alliance, LIV Golf invitational events will become part of, and sanctioned by, the MENA Tour which is among the eligible tours listed on the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) website. "We are taking this mutually beneficial action to support the game at the developmental level and because of the importance and fairness of LIV golfers qualifying for OWGR points," LIV Golf President Atul Khosla said in a MENA Tour news release. "We're pleased to create pathways that give more opportunities for young players, while also giving fans rankings that include all the world’s best golfers." This week's LIV Golf event, which will feature big-name players like world number three Cameron Smith and twice major winner Dustin Johnson, is not listed on the OWGR website among the events receiving points. Without the ability to earn points, which carry significant weight when it comes to gaining entry into golf's four majors, those competing on LIV Golf will tumble down the rankings and be at risk of missing the blue-riband events. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE! We saw the vision: Ian Poulter explains his decision to join LIV Golf, stirs world ranking debate Last month, all 48 players who competed at LIV Golf's event outside Chicago sent a joint letter to OWGR Chairman Peter Dawson urging him to award ranking points to competitors on the Saudi Arabia-backed series. According to the OWGR website, the ranking points breakdown is derived from each tournament's total field rating and points are awarded to players who make the cut and complete an event, subject to their finishing position in the tournament. LIV Golf's 54-hole events do not have a cut. The LIV Golf series is bankrolled by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund and critics have accused it of being a vehicle for the country to attempt to improve its reputation in the face of criticism of its human rights record.

LIV golfers set to earn ranking points after strategic alliance with MENA Tour

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

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

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

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

Internationals captain Trevor Immelman says losing several top players to LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;has deepened the determination of the players who will compete against the United States at the Presidents Cup. Having worked with more than two dozen players over the past 18 months, Immelman hopes the lost talent might help create a tighter bond among the players who will tee off starting Thursday in the team showdown at Quail Hollow.

"Strengthened our team from a resolve standpoint," Immelman said. "The 12 that are here, they are the ones that remained loyal, stayed with our team, wanted to play in the Presidents Cup and those are the guys I want to fight with."

The Americans lead the all-time rivalry 11-1-1, having won eight in a row. Their only loss came at Melbourne in 1998. The Internationals were seen as a serious threat to win on US soil for the first time before losing several top players to the Saudi-backed LIV&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Series.

British Open winner Cameron Smith, the world number three from Australia, Chile's Joaquin Niemann, South African Louis Oosthuizen, Mexico's Abraham Ancer and Aussie Marc Leishman were the top names who jumped to LIV, bringing indefinite bans from the PGA and banishment from Presidents Cup consideration. "There's a tension and strife in the game right now," US captain Davis Love said.

Immelman still has five top-30 players in past Masters champions Adam Scott and Hideki Matsuyama, South Korean stars Kim Joo-hyung and Im Sung-jae and Canada's Corey Conners. But the diminished global squad is seen as a severe underdog against a mighty US lineup with 12 of the world's 25 top-ranked players, 11 of them in the top 18.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unfortunately-i-cannot-speak-on-that-magnus-carlsen-refuses-to-clarify-cheating-claims-518767">'Unfortunately, I cannot speak on that': Magnus Carlsen refuses to clarify cheating claims</a>

And that's with eighth-ranked Will Zalatoris injured and several US stars joining LIV, including Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, Patrick Reed and Bryson DeChambeau. "We're really happy with the 12 we've got," Love said. "There's no talk in our team room of anybody missing."

But&nbsp;golf&nbsp;fans will never know if a full Internationals lineup might have challenged the Americans. "We can't run from it," Immelman said. "It has been a real tough time. It was sad and disappointing to have to go through that. It has been tough to see. "All those players knew what the repercussions would be if they went over to the other tour. Everybody knew where they stood." Immelman said he got the bad news directly from players and was kept in the loop as they decided on LIV. "Am I disappointed they won't all be here? Absolutely," Immelman said. "Now we get to go up against a strong American team. we're looking forward."

Immelman said nothing came of talk to make his team an organization to allow LIV players, saying, "When you look under the hood... it's not really a viable option."

Camaraderie among best -

Immelman's plight had some sympathy from US star Justin Thomas, who won his second PGA Championship in May. "It's just an unfortunate situation for him. It's not fair," Thomas said. "It's tough. We didn't want it. He didn't want it. It's a bummer. "But he has put together a very strong team, camaraderie-wise one of the best they've had." Unifying talent from across the planet have been the achievement, Immelman said.

"You're blending seven or eight cultures and trying to get everybody in their sweet spot," he said. "It has been tricky and something we've worked really hard on over the last three or four years. "We're starting to get there slowly but surely, so now it's much more about how those two players can blend together and their games would then match up with the&nbsp;golf&nbsp;course."

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

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

Deeper resolve for global Presidents Cup side following LIV losses

LIV Golf CEO&nbsp;Greg&nbsp;Norman&nbsp;will meet with U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill this week to discuss the Saudi-backed circuit's ongoing dispute with the U.S.-based PGA Tour, the Washington Post reported on Monday. "LIV Golf is coming to the Hill this week to meet with lawmakers from both parties," a LIV spokesperson told the paper in a statement.

"Given the PGA Tour's attempts to stifle our progress in reimagining the game, we think it's imperative to educate members on LIV's business model and counter the Tour's anti-competitive efforts." LIV did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. It was not clear from the report which lawmakers the golf circuit would meet or whether they would include those from both the House and Senate.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/magnus-carlsen-resigns-from-rematch-with-hans-niemann-after-just-two-moves-517910">Magnus Carlsen resigns from rematch with Hans Niemann after just two moves</a>

Critics say LIV Golf, which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, amounts to "sportswashing" by a nation trying to improve its reputation in the face of criticism over its human rights record. The PGA Tour has suspended players that have been lured away by the staggering sums of money the circuit has offered. LIV counts 12 major winners among its players and offers $25 million purses in no-cut 54-hole tournaments.

The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the PGA Tour for potential antitrust violations. LIV has also joined a federal antitrust lawsuit filed by some players over their suspensions.

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

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

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

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

On Tuesday (August 30), Anirban Lahiri became the first-ever Indian golfer to become a part of the LIV Golf Tour. The Saudi-backed LIV Series has grabbed a lot of eyeballs and faced the heat from plenty in the recent past, including veteran golfer Tiger Woods.&nbsp;

However, Lahiri joined a plethora of big names to be a part of LIV Golf, including British Open winner Cameron Smith. He has now become the&nbsp;first Asian to sign up with Liv Golf. The latest list of joinees on Liv Tour&nbsp;includes The Open champion&nbsp;Smith (Australia),&nbsp;Chile's Joaquin Niemann and American duo Harold Varner and Cameron Tringale. Hence, Lahiri's joining can be seen as an opportunity to target the ever-growing Asian golf market. While the financial details of the veteran Indian golfer are not known yet, the 35-year-old spoke to WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo and dwelled on the much-debated LIV Golf vs PGA Tour, his reason for making the switch and more.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EXCLUSIVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EXCLUSIVE</a> | Indian ace Anirban Lahiri was unveiled as a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVGolf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVGolf</a> player on Tuesday, and the 35-year-old will play the Boston invitational later this week. <a href="https://twitter.com/anirbangolf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anirbangolf</a> spoke to WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiggySinghDeo</a> and explained why he felt the time was right to leave the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PGATour?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PGATour</a> <a href="https://t.co/O28AlyERbv">pic.twitter.com/O28AlyERbv</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1564853646483156992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Excerpts:

Q. The breakaway LIV Golf series continues to defy its detractors. Six new players including World number two Cameron Smith have joined the LIV series. Anirban when did you decide to move on from PGA Tour?

I don't think it is the right way to put it, Diggy (smiles). It was about exploring another option. It was also exploring an alternative way. To answer your question, it was after the first event happened in London. Some of my friends were playing and I spoke to them. They said that while it has received a lot of scrutiny, it isn't what everybody is saying it is. That's when I started considering it and then it evolved from there.

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Q. What is it about LIV Golf that makes it worthwhile for you to join?

I think that is a good question. Everybody has joined for personal reasons. For me, I have been in the US, fully committed to the PGA Tour. It has been seven years. A lot of things have transpired in those seven years. I have tried to work on my form, fix my issues and keep my game in good shape. At times, when you come back from a tournament schedule, I have found it difficult to blow off steam. But it hasn't felt like it at times. I have become a father twice so it gets difficult. It especially gets difficult when you don't have a family, friends, or a support system that you would like to have, not just personally but for your kids. I've asked myself 'Why am I doing this?'. So, it also comes at a cost. It was always about coming back home, closer to India, give back to the game and contributing to my family.

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Welcome to LIV <a href="https://twitter.com/anirbangolf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anirbangolf</a> 👋<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVGolf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVGolf</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z7viqmMp30">pic.twitter.com/Z7viqmMp30</a>
— LIV Golf (@LIVGolfInv) <a href="https://twitter.com/LIVGolfInv/status/1564605539795046405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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When LIV came along, I was like 'wow, here is an opportunity for me to actually make that all a reality'. With this schedule, I can still play 8-9 times or how many times they are going to play in the US. The scheduling will be done to maximise the travel. I will be playing in Asia, with young Indian professionals. I will be able to see my coach and have my family and friends. In a nutshell, the positives were outweighing the individual pursuit of my own goals.

<blockquote>
Speaking to Golf Digest, Smith had pointed out that the&nbsp;money was a “factor” but not the “biggest reason” why he decided on jumping from PGA Tour to LIV.

“It was obviously a business decision for one and an offer I couldn’t ignore,” Smith said.

“The biggest thing for me joining is [LIV’s] schedule is really appealing. I’ll be able to spend more time at home in Australia and maybe have an event down there, as well. I haven’t been able to do that, and to get that part of my life back was really appealing.”
</blockquote>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anriban-lahiri-becomes-first-indian-to-sign-up-with-rebel-liv-golf-tour-511561">Anirban Lahiri becomes first Indian to sign up with rebel Liv Golf Tour</a>

Q. You would've obviously weighed up the options. There are going to be new elevated tournaments. More money. Also, with your FedEx Cup rankings just outside the top 70, you would've got&nbsp;an opportunity to play all those events as a guaranteed starter, compared to the PGA Tour.

I think the changes brought forward are fantastic. This season is probably the best time to be a professional golfer because the opportunities are immense. If not because of LIV Golf, it has definitely been a catalyst. To answer your question, there are opportunities. I will be honest, if I was really happy with my life in the US and&nbsp;not come back, I could. The US government would run to give me a green card, being an athlete. I came to America because it was the best decision for my job.

If I was really happy, I wouldn't have left. Because you said very rightly that the financial aspects are there in the PGA Tour as well. But if you look at the opportunities in LIV Golf, I have plenty.

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

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

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

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