LIV Golf star Pat Perez finds himself at odds with Tiger Woods after recent disputes, a similar awkward situation to one he experienced with Dustin Johnson two years prior.
Attacking PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan became contentious when Johnson was inaccurately accused of sharing the same sentiments as Perez. Now, 48 year old Perez has fired a stern message at Woods following verbal criticisms towards LIV.
Despite clashing with Woods, Perez’s standing with the Saudi Arabian-backed rebel tour remains unsure. Signing a $10m (£7.9m) contract with the renegade series earlier in 2022, amidst notable critics such as Woods, initially positioned Perez favourably within the league.
Early victories, including the inaugural LIV team championship as part of the 4Aces crew alongside Johnson, Patrick Reed and Harold Varner III, reinforced his initial success.
However, controversial remarks about Monahan accrued negative attention as it appeared he represented the entire team rather than expressing personal sentiment.
Following an Adelaide-based LIV event last year, Johnson allegedly stated: “We [LIV Golf ] don’t give a damn how he [Monahan] feels. We know how he feels about us, so it’s mutual.”
Johnson was forced to release a statement denying he made those remarks and reaffirming his respect for Monahan. Following that, Perez had to come clean, admitting to Sports Illustrated: “DJ said nothing, it was all me. I said we don’t care what Jay thinks cause we know how he feels about us and when I say WE, I mean me. I can’t speak for the whole group.”
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Perez has not only been in the spotlight for his controversial comments but also for his team’s performance woes. His 4Aces squad is struggling, currently sitting in ninth place in the rankings.
Moreover, Perez himself is teetering on the edge, ranked 47th and close to the relegation zone. With only three matches remaining, the 48 year old risks falling out of the high-stakes series.
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