‘Where is the honour and integrity?’ Readers on golf’s Saudi takeover

W hen the US Open begins on Thursday, focus will not justbe on the competition but how the players react after the shock announcement last week that the PGA and DP World Tours are merging commercial operations with the rebel LIV circuit.

The multi-billion-dollar investment from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has brought to an end a year of dispute in the sport that forced players to choose sides. Though Rory McIlroy has said the PGA Tour now has a “brighter” future because of the PIF deal – he has also called for consequences over breakaway players who “irreparably harmed” the Tour.

Guardian readers from around the world have been in touch to share their reactions, with many golf fans expressing dismay at the PGA Tour’s decision and airing concerns about Saudi Arabia effectively taking control of top-level golf.

As John, a retiree from Paris, says: “The objection for many will not be that billions may pour into the sport, but that the Saudi government will be in charge – not just a government with no history or tradition of golf, but with a very dubious (to say the least) record on human rights.”

“This merger demonstrates the weaknesses on both sides: the PGA needs cash, the PIF wants credibility,” adds PK from London.

Andrew, a copywriter from NYC who has been playing golf since he was 12, is one of many to make the wider point about sportswashing. “Everything is for sale in the modern world and it makes me feel sick. Despite being a great sports fan, I have not watched the World Cup or the Olympics for some years. I also have stopped watching the Premier League as it does not stick to its own rules on suitable ownership. Abu Dhabi has never been a fit owner for Manchester City and the Saudi Public