Lee Westwood has hit back at Tiger Woods ’ criticism of stars who have signed for LIV. Woods, the 15-time Major champion, accused players who have joined the Saudi-backed LIV series of turning their backs on the sport as he slammed the exhibition event.
The American superstar, who turned down over £100million to sign for LIV, compared the 54-hole format to the Seniors Tour earlier this week at The Open. “I just don't understand it,” said Woods. “What is the incentive to go out there and earn it in the dirt?”
Speaking before the 150th Open at St Andrews, golf’s first billionaire made clear his contempt for a breakaway league which offers $25m prize money for each event to the 48-man field with no cut.
But Westwood was defiant about his decision after shooting an opening four-under 68 over the Old Course. Westwood, 49, now the world No.94, responded: “He's got a vested interest hasn't he? The LIV players will talk the LIV tour up, the PGA players that aren't on the LIV tour will talk the PGA Tour up and put down the LIV tour.
"I don't pay too much attention to people's opinions. Tiger is entitled to his opinion. I respect Tiger as a golfer. One of the two best golfers that has ever played the game.” Westwood was speaking after birdieing the last having dropped a shot on the Road Hole 17th.
He added: “I always get a fantastic reaction from the galleries at the Open Championship. As a British player it is the best tournament of the year. The atmosphere is incredible. I think the general public just want to go out there and see good golf, no matter where it is being played or who is playing it.”
