LIV Golf: An Unprecedented Exodus

BEDMINSTER, NEW JERSEY | In their minds, golfers who choose to skip the PGA Tour or DP World Tour aren’t doing anything wrong. They believe they have the freedom to play wherever they want without giving anything to the circuits. However, the rules and consequences are clear.

• Also Read: LIV Golf: The Saudi Money Rush

• Also Read: LIV Golf: Not the Saudis’ fault?

• Also Read: LIV Golf: Increased popularity for grip

Golfers who hold a PGA Tour card must abide by the terms of their contract.

After a request to the PGA Tour, News magazine Members have received a copy of the terms and conditions document to be followed.

However, it is clearly stated that a member cannot participate in a tournament in another circuit when it conflicts with one of its tournaments entered in the calendar. This rule was established “to ensure the contractual obligations of the board and to contribute to the success of the tournament,” we read.

If a golfer wishes to participate in another event, he must make a request to the Commissioner. But it is not allowed in North America.

That’s clearly the case for the LIV Golf League, which is hosting five of its eight tournaments on American soil this season.

Resignations

So it is an illusion that a player can get permission to register for an unrecognized event happening at the same time as a circuit tournament. This season, three tournaments, including Bedminster, will be held at the same time as the PGA Tour.

That’s why PGA Tour management has automatically suspended thirty defectors who joined the LIV league. Some like Dustin Johnson, Sergio Garcia and Kevin Na have resigned, while others like Phil Mickelson are resisting by wanting to stay on.