The PGA Tour has suspended more than a dozen golfers who are leaving the tour to play in a breakaway golf league.
The announcement came on Thursday morning in a fiery letter addressed to PGA members from Tour commissioner Jay Moynahan. The statement was released against the backdrop of several of the suspended players participating in the opening round of LIV Golf's inaugural event, at The Centurion Club outside London.
"We have followed the Tournament Regulations from start to finish in responding to those players who have decided to turn their backs on the PGA Tour by willfully violating a regulation," Moynahan said.
"Simultaneous to you receiving this memo, the players (listed below) are being notified that they are suspended or otherwise no longer eligible to participate in PGA Tour tournament play, including the Presidents Cup."
Among those being banned were Sergio Garcia, Dustin Johnson, Martin Kaymer, Graeme McDowell, Phil Mickelson and Kevin Na.
Tour officials had previously threatened suspensions and possible expulsion in accordance with tour bylaws.
"These players have made their choice for their own financial-based reasons," Moynahan said. "But they can't demand the same PGA TOUR membership benefits, considerations, opportunities and platform as you. That expectation disrespects you, our fans and our partners. You have made a different choice, which is to abide by the Tournament Regulations you agreed to when you accomplished the dream of earning a PGA TOUR card and -- more importantly -- to compete as part of the preeminent organization in the world of professional golf."
LIV Golf denounced the move shortly after.
"Today's announcement by the PGA Tour is vindictive, and it deepens the divide between the Tour and its members. ... The era of free agency is beginning as we are proud to have a full field of players joining us in London, and beyond."
Among the field in London were Mickelson, who was one of the first to commit to the league and has long been critical of the PGA Tour's compensation structure for players. Joining him were fellow major winners Garcia, Johnson, as well as tour veterans Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter. Recent reports suggested PGA stars Bryston DeChambeau and Patrick Reed would also be defecting.
Several players, including Na, had already officially resigned from the PGA, ostensibly to avoid potential punishment. Moynahan said those players would soon be removed from the FedEx Cup points standings.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram