The controversial new Saudi-backed golf circuit has been the topic of debate in the sport of late and it has been given a major boost with the former world number one, Dustin Johnson, confirming his participation.

Johnson is by far the highest profile golfer confirmed for the event this is in contraction to his earlier statement when he defended and committed himself to the PGA Tour.

Johnson is one of two top 20 players confirmed in the field thus far with the other being South Africa's Louis Oosthuizen.

The 2010 Open champion, Oosthuizen in the top-ranked South African confirmed in the field with the others being Oliver Bekker, Hennie du Plessis, Branden Grace, Justin Harding, Shaun Norris, JC Ritchie and Charl Schwartzel.

The $25 million LIV Golf Invitational will tee off on 9 June in London.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport