Two-time major champion Dustin Johnson has resigned his membership of the PGA Tour in order to play in the Saudi-funded LIV Golf Invitational Series.
The former world number one will play all eight events of the fledgling $255m (£200m) series, which starts on Thursday at Centurion Club, London.
Johnson, 37, joined the PGA Tour in 2007 and has won $74m in his career.
“I don’t want to play for the rest of my life, this gives me an opportunity to do what I want to do,” he said.
In quitting the PGA Tour, the 2020 Masters champion – who is reportedly receiving $150m in appearance fees to play in the series – is giving up his opportunity to play in the Ryder Cup.
He has been on the winning side in two of his five appearances in the biennial competition against Europe, including last year’s record victory at Whistling Straits in Michigan.
“The Ryder Cup is unbelievable and has meant a lot to me, but ultimately I decided this was best for me and my family,” said the 2016 US Open champion.
“All things are subject to change and hopefully at some point it will change and I will get a chance to do that again.”
More to follow.
