Kevin Na resigns from PGA Tour to avoid conflict with LIV Golf event

The scale of disruption caused by the Saudi Arabian-backed LIV Golf Series has been emphasised after Kevin Na announced his resignation from the PGA Tour.

The world No 33 will play when the event debuts at the Centurion Club in Hertfordshire from Thursday. Rather than face sanctions from the PGA Tour for taking part in the $25m event, Na has terminated his membership.

He said: “For 19 years I’ve played on the PGA Tour and I have loved every minute of it. I appreciate the platform the tour has provided me to play the game that I love. Recent developments in the professional golf world have given me a chance to reconsider my options.

“I would like the freedom to play wherever I want and exercising my right as a free agent gives me that opportunity. However, to remain a PGA Tour player, I must give up my right to make these choices about my career. If I exercise my right to choose where and when I play golf, then I cannot remain a PGA Tour player without facing disciplinary proceedings and legal action.

“I am sad to share that I have chosen to resign from the PGA Tour. This has not been an easy decision [and] not one I take lightly. I hope the current policies changes and I’ll be able to play on the PGA Tour again.”

It remains to be seen how many follow the lead of the 38-year-old. Some may fear potential action from the PGA Tour could affect their ability to feature in majors.