PGA Tour suspends all golfers competing at Saudi-backed LIV event

No sooner were balls in the air at the inaugural LIV Golf Series event than the PGA Tour announced indefinite bans for those among their membership – including Phil Mickelson – who are featuring at the Centurion Club.

In a letter to the PGA Tour membership, the commissioner Jay Monahan listed 17 golfers who are not eligible to compete in upcoming competitions. They include Sergio Garcia, Dustin Johnson, Branden Grace, Martin Kaymer, Graeme McDowell, Kevin Na, Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel and Lee Westwood, who have resigned PGA Tour membership. Others, including life member Mickelson, have not.

“These players have made their choice for their own financial-based reasons,” said Monahan. “But they can’t demand the same PGA Tour membership benefits, considerations, opportunities and platform as you. That expectation disrespects you, our fans and our partners.

“You have made a different choice, which is to abide by the tournament regulations you agreed to when you accomplished the dream of earning a PGA Tour card and – more importantly – to compete as part of the preeminent organization in the world of professional golf.”

The letter does not mention Bryson DeChambeau or Patrick Reed, who have been tipped to join the LIV scene. The suspicion remains that Mickelson has already served a suspension after comments as relating to the PGA Tour were published in February. Speaking before the LIV tournament, the six-time major winner said he did not feel compelled to resign from the PGA Tour.

Those who are suspended or have resigned will not be able to play on the PGA Tour – or its co-sanctioned tours – even on sponsor invites. Monahan added: “You probably have more questions. What’s next? Can these players come back? Can they