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Stenson out as 2023 European Ryder Cup captain, joins LIV Golf

PAUL ELLIS / AFP / Getty

Henrik Stenson's captaincy of the 2023 European Ryder Cup team "has been brought to an end with immediate effect," Ryder Cup Europe announced in a statement Wednesday morning.

"In light of decisions made by Henrik in relation to his personal circumstances, it has become clear that he will not be able to fulfill certain contractual obligations to Ryder Cup Europe that he had committed to prior to his announcement as captain on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, and it is therefore not possible for him to continue in the role of captain," the statement continued.

Stenson confirmed his decision to defect to LIV Golf a few hours later.

"While I disagree with (Ryder Cup Europe's) decision, for now it is a decision that I accept. ... I am hugely disappointed to not be allowed to continue in my role but wish you all the best in your ongoing preparations," he wrote in a statement.

Stenson added that he made arrangements with LIV Golf that would've still allowed him to serve as captain at the Ryder Cup.

He will play at the rival series' third event in New Jersey on July 29.

A five-time Ryder Cup player, Stenson sank the winning putt for Team Europe at the biennial competition in 2006. He served as vice-captain during Europe's loss at Whistling Straits in 2021.

Stenson said in March that competing in the Ryder Cup provided him with some of his "greatest memories" and the "experiences of a lifetime," according to CBS' Kyle Porter.

Ryder Cup Europe said it'll name another captain "in due course."

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