Henrik Stenson is in contention to collect a cool £4million in prize money on his LIV Golf debut in the wake of his controversial decision to snub the Ryder Cup captaincy in exchange for a LIV spot. Stenson found himself at the centre of the saga that has split the golfing world, after being stripped as European skipper when joining the breakaway circuit.
The Swede’s contentious switch was confirmed earlier this month, and in doing so saw the end of his reign as Team Europe’s main man just four months after being given the role. In a statement revealing the expected news, Stenson said: “Unfortunately my decision to play in LIV events has triggered Ryder Cup Europe to communicate that it is not possible for me to continue in my role as Ryder Cup captain.
"This is despite me making specific arrangements with LIV golf, who have been supportive of my role as captain, to ensure I could fulfil the obligations of the captaincy.
“While I disagree with this decision, for now it is a decision that I accept. I want to thank everyone I have worked with to prepare for Rome in 2023. I am hugely disappointed to not be allowed to continue in my role but wish you all the best in your ongoing preparations.”
In exchanging his Ryder Cup captaincy, the Swedish star received a cool £40million signing on fee, and is on course to top up his LIV riches after fighting his way into contention on his Saudi series debut at Trump National, Bedminster this week. Stenson finds himself at the top of the leaderboard heading into the final round on Sunday.
He kicked off his LIV Golf career in style, carding an impressive seven-under-par 64 during Friday’s opening round. The 2016 Open champion then backed this up with a two-under 69 on Saturday, to leave nine-under for the tournament - three shots ahead of Dustin Johnson in second with 18 holes to play.
Following his fast start on Friday Stenson said: “It was the best golf I’ve played all year,” and no doubt came as a much-needed breakaway from the chaos he has been embroiled in off the course. Discussing his whirlwind two weeks after Saturday’s second round he said: “Yeah, it’s certainly been a busy and emotional week, no question, or 10 days.
“But I was very happy with how I managed to channel the concentration and go out and play the best round of the season [Friday]. I didn’t have my best stuff today, but I was still focused and had a good attitude, and that’s what kept me in the ballgame. Yeah, pleased with the way I’ve kind of kept my head down and focused on business.’’
