Lee Westwood was one of the pioneering golfers to embark on a controversial path. The talented golfer made the decision to join LIV Golf, a tour supported by Saudi Arabia, and is now building his career on this circuit. The 51-year-old Englishman has faced constant criticism directed at LIV Golf, but it appears that he has gradually adopted a different mindset and now chooses not to respond to it. Speaking on the Fairway to Heaven podcast, Westwood confessed that he no longer pays attention to the critics.
“After three decades of being a professional athlete, I’ve learned not to care about what anybody thinks.” – Lee Westwood stated, as reported by Express.
Westwood reflected on the achievements he has accomplished in his career, emphasizing that he has been a part of the European Tour for almost 30 years. Despite the criticism directed at LIV golfers, who are often accused of lacking loyalty, Westwood aims to prove through his own example that this is not the case. The Englishman believes that he remains highly loyal by participating in European tournaments and cherishing his time there. Throughout his career, Westwood has consistently supported and been ready to assist the European Tour.
“I’ve been a member of the European tour for nearly 30 years and I’ve won in the U.S. twice, without becoming a member there, you know, I stayed on the European Tour. I enjoyed playing in Europe and that’s where I felt like I belonged. Covid came along, and many people went and started competing in the States due to world ranking points and various factors. But I stayed in Europe and played European tour events, to support them and contribute to those fields. So I clearly have a very different perspective on loyalty than individuals who have made foolish statements.” – Lee Westwood continued.
It has been two years since LIV Golf emerged on the scene, and it is evident that there is now less tension, pressure, and criticism surrounding it. It seems that golf enthusiasts have grown accustomed to LIV Golf and have accepted this tour as an integral part of the golfing world. The initial wave of golfers who left the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf faced the most criticism. Since then, there has been a noticeable decline in the amount of criticism directed at LIV Golf players.
Westwood responded to his critics by suggesting that many of them are beginning to realize they were deceived by individuals with financial interests. He explained that these critics spread false narratives and created negative perceptions about LIV players. Their objective was to justify their own stance and persuade the public to view LIV players unfavorably while portraying themselves in a positive light.
The accomplished English golfer also recently criticized the PGA Tour’s new TGL league, insinuating that the PGA Tour is trying to imitate LIV Golf. In a media interview, Westwood pointed out that PGA Tour officials appear to be attempting to replicate LIV Golf. Since its introduction to the golf scene, LIV Golf leaders have emphasized their goal of introducing changes and driving evolution in the world of golf.
“I find it amusing what the PGA Tour players have come up with. It’s simply an imitation of what LIV is doing.” – Lee Westwood remarked.
In his statements, Westwood criticized those who labeled LIV Golf as non-competitive. He emphasized that critics frequently attacked LIV’s no-cut format and smaller player fields. Ironically, he mentioned that the PGA Tour is now proposing a series of 20 events with a format similar to LIV’s. Westwood expressed hope that these critics will eventually reconsider their previous statements and be held accountable, just as LIV Golf faced scrutiny in its early stages.
Based on his remarks, it appears that Westwood wants to highlight that the PGA Tour is trying to copy LIV Golf while simultaneously criticizing it. Since the emergence of LIV Golf, PGA Tour leaders have implemented various changes aimed at countering LIV Golf’s influence and maintaining their position in the golf world. PGA Tour officials can find solace in the fact that two or three of their biggest stars, such as Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Scottie Scheffler, have remained loyal to their tour.
Lee Westwood has publicly criticized the PGA Tour and some of his colleagues who have criticized him and others. Westwood is known for frequently commenting on the golf scene and is not hesitant to share his opinions. The 51-year-old golfer has no intention of altering his views, firmly believing that the LIV Golf Tour is where he feels most comfortable.
Photo from Lee Westwood Instagram
