Campbell wants restrictions lifted

Michael Campbell is hoping that talks in England this week will see a lifting of the ban which currently prevents him playing more than 10 events in America each season.

The New Zealander earned a five-year PGA Tour exemption with his victory last year in the US Open, but had a restriction placed on him because he quit in mid-season in 2003 to return to Europe.

Since it counts for both circuits, this week’s American Express world championship at The Grove near Watford counts as his 10th and final PGA Tour appearance of 2006.

“I want to get back to 15 if I can and I’m talking with PGA Tour representatives here,” stated Campbell.

“At the moment the restriction stays next year, and if I play in the Presidents Cup that would count as one of my 10.”

A year ago when Campbell first spoke out about the situation he said: “It’s disappointing that I can’t control my own schedule. I am a global player and it’s like my hands are being tied.

“They set their rules for some reason but I think that sometimes the PGA Tour have a stranglehold on the world. I am a free bird and sometimes they hold me back.

“I am sure there are sponsors in the United States who want the US Open champion in their field, but the rules are preventing me playing two or three I might like to.

“What if Jack Nicklaus came to me and asked me to play the Memorial tournament and I can’t because I’ve already committed to 10 others?”

Aside from the majors and the world championships this year, Campbell’s only PGA Tour starts were in the Mercedes Championship in Hawaii in January and then the Bay Hill Invitational and Players Championship, both in Florida in March.