Patrick Reed has become the latest PGA Tour star to sign up for the controversial LIV Golf Invitational Series.
Alongside Bryson DeChambeau, whose place on the Saudi-funded breakaway tour was announced on Friday, the 2018 Masters champion is scheduled to play at the second event in Portland, Oregon, which takes place at Pumpkin Ridge from June 30 to July 2.
Reed joins the likes of six-time Major winner Phil Mickelson and former world No1 Dustin Johnson in joining LIV Golf, as well as other top players such as Sergio Garcia, Ian Poulter, Graeme McDowell, Charl Schwartzel, Louis Oosthuizen, Martin Kaymer, Branden Grace and Kevin Na.
In doing so, the 31-year-old turns his back on the PGA Tour, where he is a nine-time event winner, with commissioner Jay Monahan having already banned the 17 players competing in LIV Golf’s opening tournament at Centurion Club in Hertfordshire with immediate effect and stated that “the same fate holds true for any other players who participate in future Saudi Golf League events in violation of our regulations”.
Under current rules, Reed - a stalwart of the competition in recent times - and his fellow LIV Golf rebels will also be ineligible to compete in future Ryder Cups.
Reed said: “I’m super excited. Just the thought of being able to be part of an evolution and a change in golf for the better is unbelievable.
“It’s refreshing to see team golf and takes you back to college golf and the Ryder Cup.
“I’ve been talking to some of the guys after the first and second rounds and they told me how well the tournament is run and the turnout with the fans, the energy and excitement. Portland can’t get here fast enough.”
LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman added: “The growing roster of LIV Golf players gets even stronger today with a player of Patrick Reed’s caliber. He has a proven track record as one of the most consistent competitors in pro golf and adds yet another big presence at our tournaments.
“He’s a Major champion who has had a significant impact playing international team competitions, and he’ll bring another impressive dynamic to our team-based format at LIV Golf.”
Alongside DeChambeau and Reed, Rickie Fowler has also been rumoured to be imminently joining the LIV Golf Series, though his participation has yet to be officially confirmed.
