Rory McIlroy understands why players are joining Saudi-backed tour

Rory McIlroy will not play in the Saudi-backed breakaway tour (Richard Sellers/PA)

Dustin Johnson will play in the opening event of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series next week in Hertfordshire – with Rory McIlroy admitting he understands the lure.

The former world number one will headline the new competition’s inaugural event at the Centurion Club from June 9-11, just four months after committing himself to the PGA Tour.