World number one Scottie Scheffler says the former PGA Tour stars who joined LIV Golf are to blame for the divide in the sport.
World number one Scottie Scheffler aimed a dig at the LIV Golf stars ahead of his Players defence.
Scheffler said if golf fans are annoyed the field at TPC Sawgrass isn’t as strong as it could be then the finger of blame can only be pointed in one direction.
“If the fans are upset, then look at the guys that left,” the 27-year-old told reporters.
“We had a tour, we were all together and the people that left are no longer here. At the end of the day, that’s where the splintering comes from.”
He added: “As far as our tour goes, like I said, we’re doing our best to create the best product for the fans, and that’s really where we’re at.”
Whilst the field here this week is strong there is no denying the 50th Players could’ve been a mouth-watering prospect with a few more LIV additions.
Past champion Cameron Smith isn’t in the field. Nor is Jon Rahm, Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson or Bryson DeChambeau.
PGA Tour fans may argue that they would be thrilled to witness Phil Mickelson competing on the legendary Stadium Course again. Scheffler went on to say that it is up to the individuals if they want to accept the money and depart. “I won’t discourage men from accepting hundreds of millions of dollars.”
“If they believe that is the best decision for their life, then they should pursue it. I am not going to pressure them to remain on our tour.” “At the end of the day, I am satisfied with being here, and we are focused on expanding our work.
I am not worried about what others are doing.” “Scheffler spoke to the press right after PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan answered questions from reporters, a first in over six months.”
Monahan emphasized that discussions with LIV’s investors are progressing quickly, and he has already had and will continue to have meetings with rival league chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan in the coming weeks.
Monahan declined to provide specific information but stated that he thinks it is advantageous for all parties to negotiate an agreement with the PIF. Monahan acknowledged that he is aware that golf enthusiasts are weary of constantly hearing about the rivalry at the top of the men’s game. “He also seemed to suggest that some player directors have requested for him to step down.”
He is uncertain if he has the complete backing of the members of the tour. Monahan stated that the question regarding players’ preference would need to be asked to the players themselves.
“I cannot make broad statements about all players, but it is evident that with the level of responsibility entrusted to me by both boards, I have the backing of our board and am suited to guide us in the future.”
“I am aware of that. I have faith in it deeply, and I am committed to achieving it.”
Bombing and gouging strategies are not effective in this situation.” No competitor has ever successfully retained a championship at the Players tournament.
“Scheffler was questioned about the reason. He thinks that there is a straightforward explanation for it.” He claimed that the golf course does not have many winners who have won multiple times. No man has won frequently on this golf course.
“I believe that the course’s design is such that it is not ideal for any specific type of player.” “This course was designed by Pete Dye and showcases his unique genius, requiring players to use a variety of different shots and testing them in various ways.”
I believe that it is among the top venues on the Tour because it caters to a variety of different playing styles. “Bombing and gouging strategies are not very effective here; you have to carefully plan your moves.”
Shorter hitters who strategically place their shots may also find it difficult on this course, as precise ball placement is crucial to avoid significant consequences.