Henrik Stenson to play BIG DP World Tour event with number of LIV Golfers

Deposed Ryder Cup captain Henrik Stenson is set to play in the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship on the DP World Tour in January, alongside a number of other European LIV Golf players.

As reported by James Corrigan of the Telegraph, Stenson will compete in the event at Yas Links Abu Dhabi in his first appearance on the Tour since being removed as Ryder Cup captain.

The Swede, who has come second twice at this event in his career, will play alongside other LIV Golf defectors including Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter, Patrick Reed, Sam Horsfield and Adri Arnaus.

The 46-year-old was removed as captain of Team Europe for the 2023 Ryder Cup in July after he made the controversial switch to the Saudi-backed series. He won on his debut at Bedminster in August. 

Stenson reportedly signed a contract three months prior to his removal that he would not move to the series commissioned by Greg Norman. He has been replaced by Englishman and former World No.1 Luke Donald.

"While I disagree with this decision, for now it is a decision that I accept. I have huge respect and admiration for the Ryder Cup and those individuals behind it who I know are doing their utmost to act in the best interests of the historic events," Stenson said in a statement.

"I want to thank everyone I have worked with to date 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."

Players on the Saudi-backed series are suspended from the PGA Tour, but a hearing in February will effectively determine if they can continue competing on the circuit formerly known as the European Tour.

The Tour issued fines and suspensions to a number of players in the summer, but the bans of Poulter, Justin Harding and Adrian Otaegui were "temporarily stayed" by an injunction.

LIV Golf participants arrived in their droves at the BMW PGA Championship in September, so this will be the first time since then that their presence will be largely felt on the DP World Tour.