The aftermath of Dustin Johnson’s decision to flee the Saudi-backed LIV tour on Tuesday night began quickly.
RBC (Royal Bank of Canada), one of Johnson’s most notable sponsors, issued a statement hinting that they were severing ties with the Masters 2020 champion.
“RBC is a proud partner of the PGA Tour. “Our partnership is linked to two world-class golf tournaments – RBC Heritage and RBC Canadian Open,” the statement said. “The PGA Tour is clear of its intentions in accordance with the tournament rules if a golfer chooses to play in an off-tour tournament, including the LIV Golf Invitational Series.
“We recently learned that Dustin Johnson decided to play at the opening of the LIV Golf Invitational Series. The DJ has been a valuable member of the RBC team since 2018. Although we are extremely disappointed with his decision, we wish him success. ”
Dustin Johnson wears the RBC logo at the PGA ChampionshipGetty Images Dustin Johnson shoots the Masters on April 10, 2022. Getty Images
The PGA tour threatened players with potential suspension or even expulsion as punishment for participating in LIV events. Johnson’s decision will put these threats to the test, given his high status in the sport.
Johnson’s name will headline LIV Golf Invitational, the debut event for PGA Tour’s new rival. It will take place at the Centurion Club in London from 9 to 11 June. Louis Oosthuizen and Sergio Garcia were among the other big names listed for the field of 42 players, which did not include Phil Mickelson, although the event is expected to add six more players.
Mickelson was shocked after he made comments threatening to use the Saudi-backed tour as a lever against the PGA Tour.
Dustin Johnson (left) and Greg Norman at the 2011 AFP via Getty Images
However, Johnson’s name is the biggest and most shocking, received by Greg Norman – the Australian golf legend who became the face of the LIV Tour.
“Dustin has been thinking about this for the last two years and decided it was in his best interest to pursue him and his family. He has never had a problem with PGA TOUR and is grateful for everything he has been given, but in the end he felt it was too insurmountable to miss, “said Johnson’s agent David Winkle in a statement.
Add Comment