Although tensions between PGA Tour members and the upcoming LIV Golf League have historically been high, many golfers say it will not be a distraction come the start of the 2023 Masters competition next week.
One of the biggest golfing controversies in history occurred in recent years after the LIV Golf League launched and many PGA Tour veterans made the decision to depart ways with their first tour. While some argue that these decisions were based on financial gain, the professionals are here to set the record straight and keep everything light-hearted.
In 2022, professional golfer Patrick Reed joined the LIV Golf League after nine tournament victories with the PGA Tour. While recognizing that feuds have been hostile among the two competitors, he plans on focusing on his swing.
“Obviously, the media and the storylines are going to be obviously LIV versus PGA Tour and all that kind of stuff, but really, at the majors, top players in the world are going and playing against each other no matter where they come from,” Reed said, according to ESPN. “For us, at least for myself, it’s going to be business as usual going out and playing.”
The Masters groups for Round 1 have been released.
Rory Mcllroy will be playing with Brooks Koepka, and Tiger Woods will be playing with Phil Mickelson.
Continuing, he even admitted he isn’t concerned about bringing home a win for the organization that represents him. Rather, he sees it from a very individual perspective. Reed explained, “Of course, would I like to have LIV be up at the top? Of course. But really, at the end of the day, it’s all of us going in there and just trying to play the best golf we can and be ready for the four biggest weeks of the year.”
Former PGA Tour member Bubba Watson discusses upcoming Masters competition
Bubba Watson, a two-time Masters winner who also left the PGA Tour for LIV Golf, recently discussed the upcoming competition as well. In a similar fashion to Reed, he said he isn’t concerned about the controversy and even revealed the media overplays the controversy of golfers departing the veteran organization for the up-and-coming LIV Gold League.
“It’s only awkward in the media. I’ve talked to people that are going to be there. I’m going to sign up with Jason Day and [Cameron] Young in the Par 3. Some guys have already asked me to play some practice rounds,” said Watson.
He went on to admit, “Media is the only one that is pushing it. I have nothing against anybody. If you change jobs, I’m not mad at you. If you start reporting for somebody else, hey, man, it’s a better decision for you and your family. Have at it.”
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