Dustin Johnson has dramatically revealed that he's resigned from the PGA Tour after signing up for the first Saudi-backed LIV Golf invitational event this week.
Johnson, a former world No 1 and two-time major champion, confirmed the news in a pre-tournament press conference on Tuesday morning. It means the American won't be eligible to play in the 2023 Ryder Cup.
The 37-year-old scored a perfect five points from five in Team USA's resounding win in Wisconsin last September, but won't be present in Rome next year following his u-turn. In February, Johnson pledged his allegiance to the PGA Tour, claiming he had turned down an offer from LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman, only to be announced in the field at St Albans.
"Obviously at this time it's hard to know what the consequences will be but right now, I reign my membership from the [PGA] Tour," said Johnson. "I'm going to play here for now, and as for the consequences I can't comment on how the tour is going to handle it."
Whilst Johnson has now undoubtedly given up his place at golf's most iconic team event, he was adamant he still intended to play in major championships: "Hopefully they will allow us to play. Obviously I'm exempt [from the LIV Golf tour] for the majors and I plan on playing there unless I hear otherwise."
When asked if giving up his Ryder Cup place represented a big decision, Johnson replied: "It was. But obviously all things are subject to change and hopefully at some point it will and I'm able to participate.
"If it doesn't, well, it was another thing I had to think really long and hard about and ultimately I decided to come to this. Obviously the Ryder Cup is unbelievable and it's something that's definitely meant a lot to me - I'm proud to say I've represented my country."
When it was put to South Carolina-born player that he'd opted for money over his country, he responded: "I've chosen what is best for me and my family."
In a week where Phil Mickleson announced he had signed a deal worth over £100 million to join Norman's new venture, Johnson's defection represents another hammer blow to the PGA Tour. Kevin Na had already announced his resignation in order to avoid sanctions and fully commit to the Saudi-backed series.
And following initial suggestions from Rory McIlroy that the rebel tour was "dead in the water," there will no shortage of star power in St Albans this week. The likes of Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter, Sergio Garcia, Louis Oosthhuizen and Graham McDowell are also amongst the entrants.
Norman has also admitted to making an audacious attempt to secure the presence of 15-time major champion Tiger Woods. However, the American turned down an extortionate $1 billion offer.
The 54-hole event gets underway on Thursday, with a prize fund of £3.8 million for the winner. Alongside the individual event, players will also compete in a team competition.
