LIV Golf tournament participants will no longer be eligible for the Presidents Cup and PGA Tour events, Commissioner Jay Monahan informed members in a memo Thursday.
LIV Golf’s inaugural tournament in London was the occasion for this memo to PGA Tour members. Stars like Dustin Johnson and Phil Mickelson will be part of the Saudi-backed league. Lee Westwood, Lee Westwood, and Kevin Na are also included. Monahan thanked all those who attended the RBC Canadian Open this weekend and addressed his letter “to those players who chose to ignore the PGA TOUR’s regulations.”
The memo specifically mentioned Johnson, Mickelson, Na, Westwood as well as Sergio Garcia, Talor Goch, Branden Grace, and Matt Jones. Monahan stated that either these players did not receive LIV Golf releases or they didn’t apply.
According to the memo, players who resigned their memberships (including Garcia, Grace Johnson, Kaymer, and McDowell), would be removed from FedEx Cup Points List after the conclusion of the RBC Canadian Open. Those who resign will not be permitted to play in PGA Tour tournaments unless they are a sponsor exemption or another eligibility category.
“These players made their decision for financial reasons. They can’t expect the same PGA Tour benefits, considerations and opportunities as you. This expectation is disrespectful to you, our fans, and our partners. The memo stated that you have chosen to abide by the Tournament Regulations when you achieved your dream of getting a PGA Tour card.
“I’m certain that our partners and fans – who are sure tired of hearing about money, more money, and more money – will continue to be entertained by the world-class competition which you present each week. There are real consequences for every shot and you have a rightful place in history when you reach that elusive winner’s circle.
Monahan praised those who stayed with the PGA Tour and stated that being part of the organization was all about “lifting up” all involved.
“I know that you are with me, and vice versa. We are also supported by our partners”. Monahan said, “It should be clear that former Tour colleagues aren’t able to say the same thing”.
LIV Golf was backed by Saudi Arabia’s financial arm and shook up golf when it offered PGA Tour members crazy amounts of money to play in the rival league.
Some players made the decision to move to the new league and were then subject to the wrathful PGA Tour. Players who might decide to leave the PGA Tour in future years will be subject to the same discipline.
LIV Golf reacted to the suspension of the PGA Tour, calling it “vindictive.”
Today’s announcement of the PGA Tour by vindictive is it deepens the division between the Tour members and the Tour. LIV Golf stated that it was troubling that the Tour, which is an organization that aims to create opportunities for golfers, is the one preventing them from playing.
This is certainly not the end of the topic. We are excited to announce the era of free agency.
