By Frank Pingue

(Reuters) – The PGA Tour suspended any future and current players who decided to participate in the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series, which began Thursday.

Jay Monahan (PGA Tour Commissioner) sent a message to members indicating that non-members who have joined the lucrative breakaway series would not be allowed on the U.S. circuit as a member via a sponsor exemption, or other categories.

LIV Golf already has six players signed up, including Phil Mickelson who won six major championships in his 45 PGA Tour victories, as well as Dustin Johnson who was the former world number 1.

“These players chose their financial path for their own reasons. Monahan wrote to PGA Tour members that they cannot demand the same PGA Tour benefits, considerations and opportunities as you. That expectation does not respect you, your fans or our partners.

“You have made a different choice, which is to abide by the Tournament Regulations you agreed to when you accomplished the dream of earning a PGA Tour card and – more importantly – to compete as part of the preeminent organization in the world of professional golf.”

Members who requested releases from the PGA Tour or DP World Tour to participate at Centurion Club, this week in London, where $25 Million is on the line, were turned down by both the PGA Tour as well as DP World Tour. The winner will receive $4 million.

LIV Golf quickly reacted to the decision of the PGA Tour.

LIV Golf stated in a statement that “Today’s announcement from the PGA Tour was vindictive” and that it furthered the division between Tour members and Tour players.

“It is concerning that the Tour, an organization committed to making golfers play, is the one preventing them from doing so.

It is important to note that this article does not represent the final word. We are excited to announce the era of freedom of agency.

After the United States Golf Association stated that it would allow LIV players to participate in the U.S. Open next week, the PGA Tour decided against this.