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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

India's Anirban Lahiri compiled another fine round of 5-under 65 to go with his first-round 66 and moved into fourth place at the LIV Golf Invitational Series event.

Lahiri was 9-under and just three behind the leader, Talor Gooch (63-65), while Joaquin Neumann, also a newcomer like&nbsp;Lahiri, was second with rounds of 64-65. Dustin Johnson (67-63) was third. Lahiri, making his LIV debut, had seven birdies and two bogeys after a bogey-free first round.

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Gooch enters the final round at The International's Oaks Course with a one-stroke lead at 12 under after shooting a 5-under 65. Johnson, the 4 Aces captain, was in solo third at 10 under after his 7-under 63.

Sandwiched in between was LIV Golf newcomer Joaquin Niemann, the Torque GC captain who matched Gooch's 65 and was at 11 under.

The 4 Aces GC has won two consecutive team titles but not yet produced an individual champion in the first three LIV Golf events.

In the team standings, 4 Aces GC was at 22 under and had a three-stroke lead over Phil Mickelson's Hy Flyers GC, with Iron Heads GC another stroke back.

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Both Gooch and Johnson have finished inside the top 10 in each of the first three events and were in good shape to maintain those streaks.

Niemann also had chances to go lower but missed several short putts, including two lip-outs on consecutive holes. Still, he's settled in nicely after joining LIV earlier this week.

On Friday night, LIV Golf announced that players would be allowed to wear shorts during competition rounds, starting immediately. A good number of the 48 players took advantage of the new rule and wore shorts.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Saudi-backed LIV Golf series has pulled of its biggest coup. World no. 2 Cameron Smith has become the highest ranked player to sign up for the rebel circuit.

World No. 2 Cameron Smith becomes highest-ranked player to join LIV Golf series

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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