He said same fate would hold true for any other players who took part in future Saudi Golf League events. If players had resigned from the tour ahead of the first rebel event,Monahan said,they would not be allowed to play PGA Tour events as a non-member by getting a sponsor exemption.
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Ten players had resigned from the PGA Tour,a list that includes Johnson and Sergio Garcia. Mickelson,who earned lifetime membership with his 45 PGA Tour titles,has not.
The ban includes participation in the Presidents Cup,which for the International team is determined by the world ranking. The USGA already has said eligible players can still compete in the US Open next week. The PGA Tour does not run the majors.
LIV Golf responded to the announcement by calling it “vindictive” and “divisive”.
“This certainly is not the last word on this topic. The era of free agency is beginning as we are proud to have a full field of players joining us in London,and beyond,” organisers said in a statement.
Speaking after the opening round,McDowell said the decision from the PGA was not “healthy for the sport”.
“We’re here because we believe we’re independent contractors,and we should be allowed to compete and play where we want to all over the world,” he said.
JC Ritchie of South Africa plays a shot during day one of the LIV Golf Invitational.Credit:Getty
“But we’re in the midst of a competitive threat. We have a compelling option,which is not agreeable by the big tours in the world. We have a situation. So,it’s disappointing.”
McDowell,who attracted criticism on Tuesday after saying he was “proud” to help Saudi Arabia on its journey,quit the PGA Tour half an hour before the start.
“I wanted to keep the moral high ground and remain a member because I really didn’t feel I needed to resign,nor that I should resign,” he said,adding that he had done so “out of an abundance of caution because I feel it puts me in a less litigious situation”.
Garcia,a Masters winner,said he had resigned as a PGA member before the tournament because he “didn’t want to get into legal battles”.
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“I’m very happy to be here for many reasons. It’s going to allow me to do what I love,which is playing golf,” he said.
Mickelson told journalists afterwards that the historic day for the sport was “awfully fun” but refused to talk about the PGA ban.
“The people were terrific and it was fun to hit some good shots and get in a competitive frame of mind again. I really enjoyed it,” he said. “Anything regarding PGA Tour matters... I’m not ready to discuss publicly at this time.”
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