Lee Westwood became the last golfer to show his intention to play in the first event of LIV Golf Invitational Seriessupported by Saudi Arabia, after the Englishman said on Wednesday that he requested the PGA Tours and in DP World Tour permission to play such tournament.
Westwood’s decision came shortly after the British Masters champion, Richard Blandwill say he requested release from the DP World Tour, while Phil Michaelson asked the PGA Tour for a similar release last month.
The first LIV Golf Invitational will be held from June 9-11 at Centurion Golf Club, just outside London.
“I drafted a statement on the PGA Tour and on the DP World Tour, like a lot of people,” Westwood told Sky Sports. “This is the stage we’re on and everything after that is a but and just a speculation. It’s a chance to play in a big tournament, against some of the best players in the world, in England. I want to play on “England. In front of the home fans, so whenever there is an opportunity like that I feel like I have to take it,” said the Briton.
The US-based PGA Tour has told its members they will be expelled if they join the Saudi-backed league. Some of the best players, such as Tiger Woods, Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomasdeclared their allegiance to the PGA Tour, while Rory McIlroy he described the breakaway league as “dead in the water”.
Westwood said golf is under investigation more than other sports for its links to Saudi Arabia. “We played a European Tour tournament in Saudi Arabia and I have communications from the PGA Tour to say that I can play in Saudi Arabia, so it hasn’t been a problem for them in recent years,” he added.
“Formula 1 ran there. Newcastle United was partly owned by people from Saudi Arabia. There was boxing there and I think there were also snooker and darts events. Golf was not the first sport there was links to Saudi Arabia, but it seems like it’s becoming more investigative than others. Whether you think it’s right or wrong is everyone’s opinion, “Westwood said.
Earlier, Bland told reporters he had applied to the DP World Tour for a permit, but added that he was committed to maintaining his title at the British Masters, which will be held at The Belfry from Thursday.
Source: La Verdad
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