How Inequity and Frustration Motivated Tour Veteran Stroud to Compete in LIV Qualifier

The LIV Golf Promotions event featured several notable names, including Jason Dufner, the 2013 PGA Championship winner, and former Ryder Cup players Victor Dubuisson and Jeff Overton. However, Chris Stroud’s decision to commit to the breakaway circuit’s first qualifying event was particularly noteworthy.

Stroud, a PGA Tour veteran with over 15 years of experience and more than 400 starts, has been limited by an ailing back in recent years, making just 37 starts. The decision by the Tour to not categorize the Promotions event as “unauthorized” prompted many players to consider the qualifier, which will grant spots on LIV Golf to the top 3 players later this month at Abu Dhabi Golf Club. However, for Stroud, the motivation was intrinsic.

In an interview, Stroud expressed his frustration with the Tour’s treatment of players outside of the top 30, emphasizing the need for self-care. He criticized the Tour for a lack of support and a skewed distribution of resources, particularly the upcoming signature-event format that will heavily favor the top performers.

Stroud has been in contact with players who have joined LIV Golf and sees the format and lifestyle as a better alternative to the PGA Tour. He expressed a clear preference for LIV Golf, even if it means giving up his Tour status, citing his disappointment with the PGA Tour’s recent handling of player concerns.

It remains to be seen if Stroud and other members who participated in the Promotions event without a media rights release will face any consequences from the Tour. However, for Stroud, the choice is clear – he would opt for LIV Golf, even if it means relinquishing his PGA Tour status.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller takes readers to the greens with his passion for golf. He offers coverage of major golf tournaments, player achievements, and insights into the sport’s rich history, making him a trusted source for golf enthusiasts.