Royal Sydney has reportedly rejected the chance to host an event on the LIV Golf Invitational Series as Greg Norman prepares to bring the tour to his home country.

According to Adam Pengilly of the Sydney Morning Herald, one of Australia’s most prestigious golf courses has turned down the Saudi-backed series, refusing to be a part of the new 14-event rota.

LIV Golf representatives travelled to Sydney in August to take a look at multiple venues. The location appealed to Norman due to its proximity to the stunning Sydney harbour.

Royal Sydney reportedly told LIV Golf they had no interest in hosting some of golf’s most recognisable figures on a tour that is under intense scrutiny and criticism for its links to the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia.

The event would’ve comfortably been the richest golf tournament ever to be held in Australia. At each event, $25 million is dished out across an individual format and a team format.

The Australian date is pencilled in for April 2023. If a suitable and agreeable venue can’t be found, Norman will look to Queensland. Sanctuary Cove on the Gold Coast is one place to be considered.

New events in Singapore, Spain and Toronto or Mexico are also set to be added to the second season of the LIV Golf Series.

Norman has built a strong Australian core on the LIV Golf Series, but this was no easy feat. Cameron Smith, who had just won The 150th Open Championship, was eventually lured with a $100 million offer.

Countryman Marc Leishman followed and this pair, along with Wade Ormsby and Matt Jones, formed an all-Aussie team at the Boston Invitational. Much to the delight of Norman.

Smith was the breakaway tour’s most significant acquisition. The 29-year-old was at the peak of his powers after winning his maiden major title at St Andrews and he was second in the world rankings.

Article originally appeared on: Golfmagic.com