Richest event ever begins under cloud as power struggles rages

ST ALBANS, England: Even as the first balls were struck at the most lucrative tournament in golf's history the bitter power struggle rocking the sport's foundations intensified on Thursday (Jun 9).

Forty eight rebel players led by the likes of Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson teed off at the Centurion Club just north of London to begin the first of eight events in the Saudi Arabia-financed LIV Invitational Series.

The opening event boasts a US$25 million prize pot with an eye-watering US$4 million going to this week's individual winner and there was a buzz of excitement at the course near St Albans.

But after a glitzy opening with a flypast of vintage aeroplanes and LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman declaring a new era had begun, the PGA Tour poured water on the parade with a statement saying they would suspend those taking part.

It was hardly unexpected, and LIV Golf responded immediately, saying the PGA Tour's decision was "vindictive and deepens the divide between the Tour and its members."

"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."

The 54-hole format, with no cuts and a team element bolted on, is aimed at shaking up golf's status quo and giving players more opportunities, according to LIV Series organisers.

Critics say the breakaway series, bank-rolled to the tune of US$250 million by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) amounts to blatant 'sportswashing' by a nation trying to improve its reputation in light of human rights concerns.

The players signed up have hardly disguised the attraction of the riches up for grabs with former US Open champion Graeme McDowell saying he would have been crazy to