Padraig Harrington issues warning to European pros chasing PGA Tour dream
Padraig Harrington has issued a warning to young DP World Tour pros chasing the PGA Tour dream.
Padraig Harrington has issued a warning to young DP World Tour pros, insisting it may not be wise for the top-10 players in the Race to Dubai Rankings to take up full PGA Tour cards.
Harrington, who endured heartbreak at the Senior Open last week, has revealed he is concerned about the future of the European-based circuit in light of the 6 June framework agreement announcement.
Thus far, the sole focus during negotiations with Saudi Arabia's PIF appears to be what future the PGA Tour will have and not what will become of the Old World circuit.
Before all hell broke loose in the world of men's professional golf, the DP World Tour opted to strengthen their ties with the PGA Tour.
More:
- "Surprised" senior official AXED by LIV Golf as high-profile exits continue
- Lefty to major champ and PGA Tour star: "You have no reason to join LIV Golf"
A strategic alliance had already been announced years earlier, but a revamped agreement was confirmed last June.
That will run through to 2035 and will see the PGA Tour increase its ownership stake in European Tour Productions from 15 per cent to 40.
As part of the 13-year operational partnership, there is also the added bonus for DP World Tour members getting a direct route to the PGA Tour.
That's because the top 10 finishers not already exempt on the season-ending Race to Dubai Rankings will receive PGA Tour cards.
Harrington told Mirror Sport he believes it can get boring seeing the top players compete against each other every week.
He would like to see young talent stay put and big players 'turning up in Europe like back in the day'.
Then there would be an added buzz when the majors roll around, he said.
Harrington added:
Harrington's comments come as a memo written by DP World Tour chief executive Keith Pelley to tour players was leaked.
The memo outlined how the 2024 season will feature an overall record prize fund of $148.5m.
Steps are also being made to allow LIV Golf players to return and how those that 'remained loyal' will be compensated.
Watched our latest YouTube video?
Ben joined the GolfMagic team in September 2021, initially as a content executive.
These days, he assumes the position of content manager.
