Reigning Masters champion Scottie Scheffler previously joked that he planned a separate table for LIV Golf League player Bubba Watson when they break bread at the champions’ dinner at Augusta National.
Now Watson has responded to Scheffler’s remarks as he gears up to make his playing debut in the LIV Golf League.
Watson is in the field for the PIF Saudi International and is joined by a host of LIV players.
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This event, under the banner of the Asian Tour, will serve as a tune-up for many players who have joined the breakaway circuit.
Watson went under the knife last May to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee.
After signing for the breakaway tour, Watson was involved in the LIV broadcasts as an on-course commentator and analyst.
Although Brooks Koepka didn’t seem too pleased in one exchange with the two-time Masters champion.
Last December, Watson, 44, spoke of the reservations he had about signing his deal with the circuit.
But after praying on the decision, he decided to leave the PGA Tour.
Speaking shortly before Phil Mickelson addressed his dig at Rory McIlroy, Watson said he was “thankful” Augusta National has allowed LIV players to be in the field at the 87th Masters.
Asked by one reporter if Watson “did his best” to try and ensure a return to Georgia, the left-hander said:
“No, I let the powers that be make the decisions. But yes, I was very thankful that we can go back to the Masters.
“Then LIV announced their schedule, so I won’t be able to go to the women’s tournament or the Drive, Chip & Putt with the kids because we’ll be in Orlando.
“But it’s one year, I’m going to definitely be in the ears of people at LIV and try to see if I can get back there because I want to support what the Masters means to the game of golf, what the membership of Augusta means to the game of golf, and I would love to be there for the Women’s Amateur and the kids on Sunday.
“It’s a little upsetting that I’ll be playing golf the week before in Orlando, but I know it’s for the best, and I’ll be there supporting my team and trying to win that trophy. But I’ll get to Augusta as as fast as I can.”
Many golf fans have already commented how they would like to observe the past champions’ dinner.
Jon Rahm said it may be a little bit tense, adding: “I keep thinking about it because I wish I could be there and just be able to see how things work out.”
Mickelson admitted there may be some awkwardness, too, although Lefty said he won’t be the cause of any tension.
Watson said:
“Hey, as long as I’m in the champions dinner, I’m fine. I’ll sit wherever he is [Scheffler] including It’s fine. As long as I’m allowed back, I’ll sit wherever he wants me to. I’ll sit outside and just stare in the window.”
The PIF Saudi International takes place over 2-5 February.
Just some of the LIV players in the field include Pat Perez, Matt Wolff, Louis Oosthuizen, Lee Westwood, Graeme McDowell, Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka.
PGA Tour members Cameron Young and Cameron Champ are also in the field.
Next page: Is the DP World Tour a better place with LIV players?
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