"That's how it is this year - apart from one event."

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An unbylined Sky Sports report says Lee Westwood was turned down for a sponsor's invite to the Smith and Wesson Open (or whatever they're calling the Memphis stop now).

"I don't like to spend more than three weeks away from home, which if I played 15 here would mean I'd have to do that more," said Westwood.

"I'm at the point in my career now and the age where I'm at a standard where I can play pretty much where I want when I want. That's how it is this year - apart from one event."

John Strege notes this is of interest not only because Westwood is one of the world's top five players, but also because Golf Channel reality show star John Daly has been given a spot in the Memphis field.

Daly once lived in Memphis and obviously has ties there. Even at that, it's a curious decision on the part of the tournament. Last year, Daly made news at the event, his first after his PGA Tour suspension was lifted, for receiving a restraining order against his estranged wife Sherrie.