As we approach masters week it becomes obvious that the tension between the American/British Professional Golf tour and the Saudi golf tour is still increasing. We find a number of Saudi tour members in the Masters field at Augusta over the grumblings of the American and British professional golfers. While many positive updated comments have been circulated it appears that the difference between the Saudi approach and the PGA of America and the British professional association are no closer together in terms of the major issues confronting these tours. Of course at the bottom of all of these issues is money. It is difficult to cede the ultimate authority by either side to the other side because the money split whether it comes from sponsors or the Saudi wealth fund will be enormous. With networks and sponsors constantly at the door the American tour is having a problem affirming its ability to control the flow of funds. This will make any resolution with the Saudi tour impossible. The question must be asked why are the Saudis interested in supporting and developing golf in a country and a region where golf is really not that popular?
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