The Presidents Cup could feature some LIV Golf controversy this weekend despite players being banned, after rumours have surfaced that Chile's Mito Pereira is set to join the Saudi-backed series.
The 27-year-old narrowly missed out on victory at the PGA Championship earlier this year when a double-bogey six on the final hole cost him dearly. As reported by Golf Magic, he has been rumoured to be the latest LIV Golf recruit, but wants to play in the Presidents Cup team-style competition first.
LIV Golf members, including Cameron Smith, have been banned from taking part in this weekend's Presidents Cup and the rebels also face an uncertain wait whether they are allowed to compete in next year's Ryder Cup.
"The agreements have been done and Mito Pereira will be joining LIV Golf to play with his very good mate Joaquin Niemann," an insider told GolfMagic. "Mito wanted to play in the Presidents Cup, which is why he has delayed the move."
Pereira was thought to be one of the best ball-strikers on the PGA Tour last season and will represent the International team which will take on America this weekend. He will play alongside Taylor Pendrith in the opening day's foursomes.
It is the first time Pereira, aged 27, has taken part in the Presidents' Cup after a season which has seen his world ranking move up from 100th to 49th
"It's the only chance we get to play in team format as an international," Pereira said ahead of the tournament. "We can't play the Ryder Cup, so this is our big event as a team."
Pereira almost provided a massive shock at the PGA Championship earlier this season when he led by one shot going into the 18th.
However, nerves got the better of him and a first shot into water cost him the title as Justin Thomas took victory and Pereira settle for joint third.
It is believed Pereira will join friend Niemann on Torque GC as part of the team form LIV Golf series. Since finishing tied third at the PGA Championship he missed the cuts at the US Open and Open Championship at St Andrews.
