"Saudi International and Asian Tour announce historic golf partnership"

An unbylined Arab News story reports on Golf Saudi moving from the European Tour—where it was once a cherished “get” for Chief Executive Keith Pelley—to the Asian Tour for 10 years. The subtext will involve how this impacts the Asian Tour, the Saudi effort to disrupt pro golf via a ripped-poff version of the Premier Golf League concept, and what players might show up to cash a check.

From the story:

“Today marks a significant development for our flagship golf event and our vision to strengthen the depth of world-class golf events, both in the GCC and also on the international stage,” said Majed Al-Sorour, CEO of Golf Saudi and the Saudi Golf Federation.

“The importance and potential of Asia’s role in world golf is undeniable, not least due to its position as a global economic powerhouse,” he said, adding: “This partnership will unlock many opportunities for players, sponsors and fans of the game. Most importantly, we are eager to help build a more inclusive game for all eligible professional golfers that spans borders and cultures by fostering collaboration with major tours and see this as an exciting first step on that journey.”