Ex-PGA Tour professional criticizes Presidents Cup for excluding LIV golfers, labeling officials as ‘clowns’ and claiming the decision is ‘bad for all golf fans.’
Former PGA Tour pro John Peterson expressed his dissatisfaction with the Presidents Cup field. After the first round, he stated that without LIV Golf players, the tournament was less exciting for fans.
The Presidents Cup 2024 kicked off on Thursday, September 26, with the four-ball session. This is the second consecutive edition of the event excluding LIV Golf professionals due to their ineligibility. Following the opening round, Peterson expressed his disappointment on X.
“Watching the Presidents Cup is really difficult,” he said. “We have a reigning Major champion not playing for the U.S., and Brooks Koepka, who’s known for his killer instinct in team golf, isn’t participating either. Plus, Joaquin Niemann and Cam Smith are also missing.”
“It’s disappointing for all golf fans… I just wish everyone would stop playing politics and ensure the best teams are on the course because this TV coverage is terrible,” he added.
Earlier this month, Niemann from Chile expressed his disappointment after not being included in the Presidents Cup.
“It’s truly disappointing. This tournament is supposed to feature the best golf players from around the globe, but they’re not showcasing that level of skill right now,” he told Bunkered.
The LIV Golf professionals were ineligible to compete at the biennial event since it is a PGA Tour tournament. For those unaware, the PGA Tour has barred players associated with the Saudi-backed circuit from participating in any of their events. In contrast, many other golfers have found opportunities to participate in various DP World Tour events after graduating from college—opportunities not available on the same scale within the PGA Tour.
Brooks Koepka, who recently earned a spot on the US Ryder Cup squad after an outstanding year, was among the six players selected by captain Zach Johnson. This achievement was feasible because the event wasn’t part of the PGA Tour and not all tour professionals are required to maintain exceptionally low stroke averages to remain competitive.