(Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-Rae) ○… The American tour of the Association of Professional Golfers (PGA) prohibited its affiliated players from participating in the inaugural event of the International Golf Series of Liv, a new tour.
The 11th (Time Korean), the PGA Tour announced on its website that “the players who asked to participate in the first tournament were refused in accordance with the PGA Tour regulations”, and said that “Tour members are not allowed to participate in the event in London de la Saudi Golf League”. Liv Golf Investments, led by Saoudie Capitale, is preparing to launch the new International Series Liv. A total of 48 players should participate in the opening event over three days from June 9 in London, England.
The total price is $ 20 million (around 25.5 billion KRW), with the winner’s price at $ 4 million. Even the last finisher will receive $ 120,000. Phil Mickelson (United States), Sergio Garcia (Spain), Martin Kaymer (Germany), Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood (England) are known to have asked to participate in the opening of the PGA tour. According to the American Magazine Sports Illustrated (SI), 170 players asked to participate in the first tournament, including 19 players classified in the world top 100.
The PGA Tour and DP World Tour (formerly the European Tower) threatened disciplinary measures, including the expulsion, against the players who participate in the new series. The proactive response of the PGA Tour of the first event signals the intensification of the conflict. Players are now faced with the choice of participating in international VIV events while accepting potential sanctions. The Liv International Series plans to organize eight tournaments by October in countries such as the United States, Thailand and Saudi Arabia.
© The Asia Business Daily (www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
