TIGER WOODS has rejected an offer of 2.3m to play in Saudi Arabia after Phil Mickleson was blasted for signing up for Middle East tournament.
The former world No.1 has, however, defended the right of players to participate in the event.
Woods, 43, revealed he had snubbed the huge appearance fees being offered by Saudi as he prepares to play in the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas.
Speaking to ESPN, he said: I just dont want to go over there, its a long way.
A host of golfers faced a fierce backlash at the inaugural event a year ago, which occurred shortly after the murder of US-based Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in October 2018.
Woods first snubbed an approach from organisers for 2019 prior to the killing, and now he has rejected a second offer to play in the upcoming bash, which occurs from January 30 to February 2.
Mickelsonwill miss next years Phoenix Open for the first time since 1990 after he became the latest golfer to announce he would be heading to Saudi.
The 49-year-old said: Im excited to go play and see a place in the world Ive never been.
I understand those who are upset or disappointed. Youll be OK. Im excited to experience this for the first time.
But one fan blasted: Youre better than taking the money grab from a corrupt regime.
However, Mickelson did receive support from Woods, with the legend saying he believed the tournament can help to grow the game in Saudi.
Woods said: I understand the politics behind it but also the game of golf can help heal all of that too. There are a lot of top players playing that tournament.
Its not a traditional golf hotbed but it has grown quite a bit.
I remember going to Dubai for the first time and seeing two or three buildings on the skyline. Now its a New York City skyline. The game of golf has grown.
There used to be only a few courses now theyre everywhere. Same with Abu Dhabi. And maybe eventually Saudi Arabia.
