Lee Westwood has pointed towards Newcastle United in defence of his decision to join the controversial Saudi Golf League. Similar to the European Super League fiasco that threatened to decimate professional football, the Public Investment Fund - who own an 80% stake in the Magpies - have created their own breakaway tournament.
Entrants to the tournament risk being permanently banned from the PGA Tour - a consequence that has seen many already distance themselves from the competition. Critics have labelled PIF’s lavish league as the latest incarnation of sportswashing used to justify the country’s poor human rights record.
Westwood remains the most high-profile golfer signed up to the Saudi Golf League and has highlighted Newcastle’s takeover and Formula One as means to take the heat off his back.
