There have been loads of LIV Golf signatories on the primary day leaderboard of the one hundred and fiftieth Open. The one manner you could possibly inform was that, for the twenty first century golfer, they have been remarkably untouched by promoting manufacturers.
Other than some being booed – and there didn’t appear to be a consensus view even on that – it didn’t appear to make a distinction at St Andrews on which facet of golf’s divide you fell.
One factor a lot of the LIVers appear to have in frequent – other than fats financial institution balances from upfront funds from Riyadh – is the utter desertion of their long-time sponsors. Perhaps they don’t want them now they’ve one other supply of revenue.
In any case, the golf’s actually not that totally different – but. It’s solely been two months. Who is aware of what the long-term impact of aggressive isolation can be.
Maybe the perfect test-case for what may occur is Phil Mickelson. He had the five-month sabbatical and since performed two LIV occasions and two rounds every at two majors. He hasn’t performed in any respect effectively and yesterday’s 72, whereas a bit of higher, was effectively behind the day’s going fee.
Regardless of, Phil “couldn’t be happier”. We all know this as a result of he mentioned it 5 instances.
Even being shut out of the Celebration of Champions and the Champions’ Dinner earlier within the week – “We each type of agreed that it could be greatest if I didn’t go” – can’t spoil his temper.
“I couldn’t be extra excited and ecstatic with the place I’m at,” he confused. “I like the occasions, get to have aggressive golf in my life on a scale that’s enjoyable, thrilling, totally different.
“I’ve bought issues that I haven’t been in a position to do prior to now. So, no, I couldn’t be happier.”
However what about Tiger saying you’ve turned your again on what made you what you’re?
“I actually respect his opinion,” continued Phil. “I’ve a variety of respect for him. Everyone’s going to have sturdy feelings and opinions about it, and I actually respect his.”
Ian Poulter didn’t hear the boos on the first tee, or on the second, or wherever else. He didn’t hear any heckles. He at the least performed much better than he had completed through authorized motion on the Scottish Open, scoring a high quality 69 with an eagle two on the ninth.
Had he learn Martin Slumbers’ feedback on LIV? “Purposely haven’t checked out all,” he mentioned. “I don’t need to know. You possibly can inform me, I’m not going to hear.
