I’m so glad I turned down Saudi cash

ALEX FITZPATRICK has revealed he received a huge offer to join the Saudi-backed LIV Series — but is now so pleased he was talked out of it by his older brother Matt.

The 23- year- old, who played twice in the Walker Cup, turned pro earlier this month and got the offer of ‘more money than I could comprehend’ after a stellar amateur career. Now he is hoping to follow in the footsteps of his illustrious sibling, the new US Open champion.

‘Matt helped me make the decision along with my parents and his incredible victory emphasised to me that I made the right decision,’ said Alex. ‘It is about the dream, not the money, although the money is very nice.

‘Matt’s win just highlighted to me why I practise hard every day. I can’t tell you how much I want to accomplish as much as he has, and he is nowhere near finished yet either.’

Alex almost missed Matt’s win after flying to North Carolina on Saturday. ‘When I left the course to go home and practise he was four back and when I landed two hours later he was tied for the lead,’ explained Alex. ‘I thought to myself, “There’s no way I’m missing this” so I turned around and flew straight back again. It cost me about $160 dollars but I reckon Matt can reimburse me.’

Alex will make his pro debut in the Horizon Irish Open on the DP World Tour a week on Thursday.