If you’re following the pro golf world you know that a deepening rift has developed as the LIV (Saudi ) Golf tour debuted last year. The US and British Golf Associations are upset because the Saudi tour has siphoned off several of golf’s highest rated and most gifted players. The LIV tour offers bigger purses, no- cut tournaments, fewer events, team events (i.e. less pressure) and probably appearance bonuses. This has forced the US and British counterparts to increase their purses–resulting in more frequent TV commercials. Unfortunately major US tournaments like the Masters in April are driven by ad money and the advertisers want the former winners of that tournament to be allowed to play–even if they deserted the US and British tours for the Saudi tour. This will make for an interesting mix of personalities. At a recent event Patrick Reed (a former US Pro) attempted to say “good morning” to Rory McIlroy and was rebuffed. The resulting snubbing led to an unpleasant reaction which was aired out in the media. Now imagine 6 Saudi tour players at the Masters tournament, heated competition, strict rules observations, tons of money and prestige at stake and a large TV and on-course viewing audience. Even if you’re not a golf fan, you may be a wrestling, hockey, boxing, football, rugby or martial arts admirer. If so there may be something for you at this year’s Masters. Mark your calendars for early April.
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