Bubba Watson is reportedly set to become the latest big-name golfer to join the controversial Saudi-backed LIV Golf Series.
The two-time major champion will reportedly earn more than £41m for defecting to LIV and joins the likes of Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka and Henrik Stenson.
According to a report from the Telegraph, Watson will be unveiled as LIV's newest signing during their upcoming event in New Jersey. The report states Watson will then play in LIV's next £20m tournament in Boston next month.
The 43-year-old has dropped to 86th in the world rankings after peaking at number two back in 2015, a year after his last major win. And the news of his defection comes after LIV announced plans for a huge global expansion next year.
They are planning to launch a new global league which will include relegation and a Grand Final as part of the tournament's structure. The new league will also use a franchise system with 12 teams set to be led by a 'Team Captain'
Players will represent teams and compete over 14 events in simultaneous individual and team play, with each season set to end with a Team World Championship match play finale.
"LIV Golf's expanding global platform will add a new dimension to the golf ecosystem as we know it, one that provides an opportunity for players and fans around the world to help maximise our beloved sport's true potential," said CEO Greg Norman.
"Our franchise model will bring new energy and excitement to fans from all corners of the world, establishing a league of teams to connect and grow with. The International Series will attract new talent and offer unprecedented pathways that develop the next generation of stars.
"LIV Golf is committed to making sustainable investments that grow the game now and for the future, and we are proud to turn these dreams into a reality."
