The appearance of the LIV Series is causing a stir, and not just in the world of golf.
The new circuit created from scratch by Saudi Arabia, the second stage of which was launched Thursday in Oregon, in the United States, arouses the indignation of members of families bereaved during the attacks of September 11.
A dozen of them held a press conference to recall the role played by Saudi Arabia in the terrorist attack.
Andre Aiken, for example, who was 3 years old when his father, Terrance, died at the World Trade Center, was among those who called for this country to be held accountable for its role in the attacks that claimed thousands of lives.
Late last year, President Joe Biden declassified a 16-page FBI report that detailed the Gulf monarchy's involvement.
Fifteen of the nineteen hijackers were Saudi nationals, in addition to al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, who orchestrated the attacks.
'Shame on them': Family members of 9/11 victims denounce LIV Golf tournament at Pumpkin Ridge https://t.co/tnRS75YyA6
— The Oregonian (@Oregonian) June 30, 2022
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The families of the victims also expressed their incomprehension and disgust at the players who agreed to participate, such as Dustin Johnson, winner of two Majors and former world number 1, Brooks Koepka, four-time winner of a Major, and Bryson DeChambeau, winner of the 2020 US Open. “The 48 players who participate in this tournament take blood money, said Brett Eagleson, whose father also died that day.
Shame on them.
I invite them to look at the pain in our eyes, to listen to our stories, to put themselves in our shoes.
»
“How much money does it take for them to stop caring about human rights?
»
The LIV Series has attracted some of the best players on the planet with $25 million in prize money for each of its tournaments.
“It's interesting to see the weight of money and where everyone puts their own limit.
How much money does it take for them to stop caring about human rights?
Guess we have the answer,” Eagleson added, in remarks carried by
USA Today
.
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From Pumpkin Ridge near Portland, all shared stories of loved ones and accused the Saudi regime of engaging in "sportswashing" as a way for the country to improve its reputation.
Andre Aiken wanted to thank all the players who chose not to participate in this tournament and showed "that their silence cannot be bought".
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