BMW PGA Championship to resume play on Saturday with 54-hole format after death of Queen Elizabeth II

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The BMW PGA Championship will resume play Saturday under a new format after the DP World Tour temporarily suspended the tournament Thursday following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

The European Tour said in a statement Friday that the flagship tournament at Wentworth Golf Club will now be shortened to 54 holes with the second round of the event scheduled to begin at 6:40 a.m. local time.

A rainbow appears as flags are flown at half-staff at the first tee following the announcement of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Golf Club Sept. 8, 2022, in Virginia Water, England.  (Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

Players unable to complete the first round will return to their previous spot on the course at 7:30 a.m. local time. 

"The decision to restart on Saturday has been taken in accordance with official national mourning guidance and in consultation with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS)," the tour said in a statement. 

ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE POSTPONES MATCHES THROUGH MONDAY FOLLOWING QUEEN ELIZABETH II’S DEATH

"The Wentworth event will give players, caddies, staff, volunteers and spectators the opportunity to come together across the weekend, not only to express their condolences but also to celebrate the extraordinary life of Her Majesty." 

A screen displays the announcement that play is to be suspended following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Golf Club Sept. 8, 2022, in Virginia Water, England.  (Eamonn M. McCormack/Getty Images)

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Officials cited the