Why are Saudis so keen to ruin golf?

SPORTSWASHING, sure. Everyone can see what’s in it for the Saudis at newcastle United. after a 1-0 win over Crystal palace, co-owners Yasir al-rumayyan, Jamie reuben and Mehrdad ghodoussi were seen enjoying a kickabout like regular guys on the pitch. regular guys who just happen to be associated with a regime that chops people’s heads off. So owning newcastle normalises this. when the club is successful, there will be more kudos and greater acceptance. it all makes sense. Do you know what doesn’t make sense? ruining golf. it is hard to think of a single person outside of those standing to make a further fortune who thinks the Saudi breakaway tour is a good idea. if phil Mickelson does not get to defend his incredible pga Championship title, if the tour is divided or the ryder Cup denied some of its great future captains, the rift caused by Saudi money will be a source of further resentment. So what’s the plan? Surely the point of sportswashing is to end up loved, admired, at the very least normalised. not hated.