Henrik Stenson: Executions happen in US and China, do we stop playing there?!
Henrik Stenson says the LIV Golf League players are being held to a different standard as he called for balance in the sportswashing debate.
Henrik Stenson says LIV Golf League critics are so "targeted on one area they can't see the bigger picture" as he called for balance in the sportswashing debate.
Stenson, 46, has given an interview to i's Kevin Garside where the Swede did not shy away from the tough questions.
Those questions will not surprise you. Sportswashing. LIV's Saudi backers. Human rights abuses. Guaranteed pay days.
You get the picture.
Related: Stenson confident LIV will win legal showdown
Stenson told the publication he understands the overall picture in Saudi Arabia "is not perfect" but the axed Ryder Cup captain has claimed LIV provides the opportunity to "bridge some gaps and influence people in different ways".
He told the publication:
Stenson added:
LIV Golf is backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. Court documents recently confirmed the PIF owned 93 per cent of the breakaway tour whilst paying 100 per cent of its expenses.
Stenson thinks there is a double-standard and believes the PGA Tour and DP World Tour are motivated by money and not morals.
He said:
Other than that topic, one of the biggest criticisms LIV has faced is that of being exhibition golf for ageing stars cashing in on the back nine of their careers.
Related: The most likely players to join LIV next
Couple that with the huge changes implemented by the established tours, there is an argument - which Phil Mickelson has made repeatedly - that players have been short-changed.
On the topic of money, Stenson said:
What do you think of Stenson's comments? Don't hesitate to Tweet us with your thoughts.
Next page: Garcia slams 'immature' Rory McIlroy
Ben joined the GolfMagic team in September 2021, initially as a content executive.
These days, he assumes the position of content manager.
