LPGA rethinks English rule

2008-09-05 21:48

St Louis - Under increasing criticism, the LPGA Tour on Friday backed off a proposed policy that would have suspended players who could not efficiently speak English.

LPGA Tour commissioner Carolyn Bivens said she would announce a revised plan by the end of the year, although it would not include penalties.

Bivens disclosed the tour's original plan in a meeting with South Korean players at the Safeway Classic in Portland, Oregon, two weeks ago, which was reported by Golfweek magazine.

The policy, which had not been completed, was widely criticised as discriminatory, particularly against Asian players, who won three majors this year.

Would help international players

Bivens said: "After hearing the concerns, we believe there are other ways to achieve our shared objective of supporting and enhancing the business opportunities for every tour player."

The announcement came just hours before the Asian Pacific American Legal Centre planned a news conference in Los Angeles, where it was to be joined by civil rights groups and elected officials demanding the LPGA overturn its policy.

One of the tour's title sponsor, State Farm, said earlier that it was "dumbfounded" by the initiative.

Bivens said the tour would continue to help international players through a cultural programme that has been in place for three years and offers tutors and translators.

- AP