Norman promises breakaway golfers: 'We've got your back'

Figurehead of rival Saudi tour insists that wantaway PGA Tour stars will be defended and reimbursed 

Breaking away: Phil Mickelson watches his tee shot on the first hole during the third round of the Charles Schwab Cup Championship golf tournament Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021, in Phoenix. 

Greg Norman has pledged to "defend, reimburse and represent" any players facing sanctions by participating in the LIV Golf Invitational Series after being denied permission to do so by the PGA Tour.

Phil Mickelson and Lee Westwood are among the professionals to have asked for the required release to play the first 54-hole event at Centurion Club, which boasts a total prize fund of 25million US dollars (£20.2million) and 4m US dollars (£3.2m) to the winner.