By Rahul Banerji
A day after he was deposed as Europe’s Ryder Cup captain, Henrik Stenson formally joined the LIV Golf series along with PGA Tour stalwarts Jason Kokrak and Charles Howell III.
Late on Wednesday, Stenson also released a statement disagreeing with his removal by Ryder Cup Europe.
“As many of you will have already seen, unfortunately, my decision to play in LIV events has triggered Ryder Cup Europe to communicate that it is not possible for me to continue in my role as Ryder Cup captain,” Stenson said.
“This is despite me making specific arrangements with LIV Golf, who has been supportive of my role as captain, to ensure I could fulfill the obligations of the captaincy.
“While I disagree with this decision for now it is a decision that I accept.
“I am hugely disappointed to not be allowed to continue in my role but wish you all the best in your ongoing preparations.” (see below)
Both the PGA Tour and DP World (European) Tour have acted against departing members, suspending and fining those who have joined LIV Golf.
US probe
At the same time, the PGA Tour continues to be the subject of a US government investigation into restrictive trade practices, which could well have a say in how things eventually pan out.
Meanwhile, LIV Golf on the day confirmed Stenson would be joined in New Jersey by Kokrak and Howell for the July 29 to 31 Invitational series.
“Former no. 2 world-ranked Stenson, one of the most accomplished European golfers for over two decades, has won 21 times as a professional and amassed 149 top-10 finishes,” the LIV website said.
“Throughout his career, he has earned more than a dozen honours as the top performing golfer on global tours and competitions, spending over 300 weeks ranked in the top 10.
“Stenson has appeared in five Ryder Cups, helping lead Europe to victories in three of those competitions (2006, 2014, 2018). Stenson will join Majesticks GC, captained by former world no. 1 Lee Westwood.
“Kokrak, an 11-time winner as a pro, has earned more than 40 top-10 finishes throughout his career. Since September 2020, he has been ranked among the top 50 players in the world, with a ranking as high as 20.
“Beginning in Bedminster, he will compete on Smash GC, captained by four-time major champion Brooks Koepka.
Slotted in
“Howell III has amassed 102 top-10 finishes throughout his career, including three professional wins. … He will play for Crushers GC, led by 2020 US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau,: the website added.
“Henrik Stenson adds yet another outstanding resume to LIV Golf’s global roster of elite players,” said LIV Golf CEO and Commissioner Greg Norman.
“His career performances spanning majors, season-long individual championships and international competitions have cemented him as a leader in today’s game.
“The addition of Jason Kokrak and Charles Howell III along with English standout Paul Casey further strengthens a field that will put on a show for the fans at Trump National Golf Club Bedminster,” Norman added.
Also read: Stenson goes as Europe’s Ryder Cup captain in latest LIV strike
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