-Ikenna Okafor
Henrik Stenson, who was named European Ryder Cup captain in March, has been relieved of his duties by the DP World Tour, it was announced, effective immediately. Stenson is expected to join LIV Golf, perhaps as early as today.
“In light of decisions made by Henrik in relation to his personal circumstances, it has become clear that he will not be able to fulfill certain contractual obligations to Ryder Cup Europe that he had committed to prior to his announcement as Captain on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, and it is therefore not possible for him to continue in the role of Captain,” the DP World Tour said in a press release.Stenson, 46, had been linked to LIV Golf for several months, but effectively changed his mind following the publication of Phil Mickelson’s incendiary comments late last year, which seemed to postpone the launch of the rival league.
European players must be members of the DP World Tour, formerly known as the European Tour, to be eligible to compete for Team Europe in the Ryder Cup.
Former US President Donald Trump on Monday urged golfers to “take the money” and sign with the LIV series, with reports stating more players were poised to join the controversial circuit.
Trump, who is hosting LIV events at two of his golf courses this year, said in a post on his Truth Social network that players should not hesitate to abandon the US PGA Tour, which he branded “disloyal”.
LIV Golf, which is fronted by Australian great Greg Norman, is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.
Stenson loses Ryder Cup captaincy