Greg Norman can speak of a 'start-up' tour but what he is presiding over is second rate

Golfers such as Lee Westwood embracing LIV tournaments of little quality and ignoring human rights are damaging the sport

SUTTON COLDFIELD, ENGLAND - MAY 06: Lee Westwood of England plays his second shot on the 13th hole during the second round of the Betfred British Masters hosted by Danny Willett at The Belfry on May 06, 2022 in Sutton Coldfield, England. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

Despite Lee Westwood’s claims, golfers have not been singled out for special attention during dalliances with Saudi Arabia. In fact the ease with which the Saudis have breezed into the golf scene – both male and female – serves as a reminder of the charmed life players lead. What a rude awakening they – and their representatives – would encounter if they had the levels of focus bestowed on Premier League clubs.

Westwood is candid about participating in the upcoming LIV Golf Series on the basis of chasing money. As a cost of living crisis impacts upon the ability of millions to heat their homes or put fuel in their cars, the relish of Westwood – hardly a pauper – for a $25m golf tournament in Hertfordshire is pretty distasteful but not a patch on an extended defence of his actions.