‘We’re not banning anyone’ – LIV Golf rebels can play The Open as R&A boss refuses to ‘spill 150 years of history’

LIV Golf rebels will be free to play at next year’s Open after R&A boss Martin Slumbers insisted: “We’re not banning anyone.”

The controversial Saudi Arabia-backed tour has attracted a host of the sport’s top stars with its huge cash prizes.

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The likes of Sergio Garcia, Graeme McDowell, Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter have come under fire since joining, resulting in a ban on PGA events.

Henrik Stenson was even fired as European Ryder Cup captain after signing up.

And questions also surfaced about attending next year’s Open, with champion Cameron Smith also on the LIV tour.

But Slumbers is adamant Smith will defend his title in 2023 after winning the 150 in July^th Open.

The R&A boss has also warned naysayers that he refuses to “betray 150 years of history” by “not being forthright”.

And the rules for qualifying stars will become clearer in the new year.

Slumbers told Golf Digest: “We will be public in January/February on what we will be doing in relation to LIV golfers.

“But if you want a guide, go back to what I said in July.

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“We don’t ban anyone. We won’t reveal 150 years of history and won’t let The Open be open.

“The name says it all. And that’s important. What we will do is ensure that there are appropriate ways and means to qualify.

“Looking forward to seeing Cam Smith tee off at around 9.40am on the first day of next year’s Open.

“The Open needs to set ourselves apart from the disagreements and ensure we stay true to our tenet of the best players in the world competing.”