The aftermath of Dustin Johnson’s decision to defect to the Saudi-backed LIV Tour on Tuesday night began quickly.
RBC (Royal Bank of Canada), one of Johnson’s most notable sponsors, issued a statement hinting that they were severing ties with the 2020 Masters champion.
“RBC is a proud partner of the PGA Tour. Our partnership is anchored in two world-class golf tournaments: the RBC Heritage and the RBC Canadian Open,” the statement said. “The PGA Tour has made clear its intentions in accordance with its tournament regulations if a golfer decides to play in an off – tour tournament, including the LIV Golf Invitational Series.
“We recently learned that Dustin Johnson has made the decision to play the opening of the LIV Golf Invitational Series. DJ has been a valuable member of the RBC team since 2018. Although we are very disappointed with his decision, We wish you the best. “
Dustin Johnson wears RBC logo at PGAGetty Images Championship Dustin Johnson hits Masters on April 10, 2022Getty Images
The PGA Tour has threatened players with possible suspensions or even banishments as punishment for playing LIV events. Johnson’s decision will test these threats, given his high status in the sport.
Johnson’s name will headline the LIV Golf Invitational, the debut event of the new PGA Tour rival. It will be held at the Centurion Club in London from 9 to 11 June. Louis Oosthuizen and Sergio Garcia were among the other big names on the 42-player list, which did not include Phil Mickelson, although the event is expected to add six more players.
Mickelson has been ostracized since commenting on threatening to use the Saudi-backed tour as a lever against the PGA Tour.
Dustin Johnson (left) and Greg Norman in 2011 AFP via Getty Images
Johnson’s name, however, is by far the biggest and most impactful of Greg Norman, the Australian golf legend who has become the face of the LIV Tour.
“Dustin has been contemplating this for the last two years and decided it was in his best interest and that of his family to pursue it. He has never had a problem with PGA TOUR and is grateful for all he has given him. but in the end he thought that was too convincing to pass up, “Johnson’s agent David Winkle said in a statement.