But in case you needed more proof that Stenson is one of golf’s last true Good Guys, the Iceman delivered overnight, taking a break from his opening round at the Saudi International to fetch a young spectator’s soccer ball out of the literal ocean.
With three final pars, McDowell finished with an even-par 70 for the day, a 12-under 278 for the week and the satisfaction that he’s still got what it takes to win on the European Tour.
Last year at the Saudi International, the bunkers at Royal Greens G&CC caused Sergio Garcia, one Spain’s all-time greats, to lose his damn mind. This year, another Spaniard, Adri Arnaus, ran into some serious trouble in a bunker as well, though he somehow managed to keep his cool.
Mickelson said he needed more time to weigh the proposal, saying he wants to know how it will affect fans and the game, but came away impressed by the group’s proposal.
What has already been an eventful year regarding players and the new Rules of Golf took a bizarre turn on overnight when Sergio Garcia was disqualified from the European Tour’s Saudi International.
Jamal Khashoggi’s murder has put other Saudi Arabia human-rights issues into light, putting the European Tour, Pelley and players in a precarious position.
Despite what is believed to be a record-setting appearance fee, Tiger Woods has turned down an invite to the European Tour’s inaugural tournament in Saudi Arabia.