R&A blocks Greg Norman from Open 150th anniversary events over LIV role

• Mickelson opts out of St Andrews celebrations; Norman barred
• R&A says of Australian we decided not to invite him'

In the latest nod towards the schism within golf caused by the breakaway LIV tour, neither Phil Mickelson nor Greg Norman will feature in the past champion events before the 150th Open Championship. While Mickelson will miss the Celebration of Champions four-hole challenge on Monday and the following evening's champions' dinner of his own volition, Norman was informed by the R&A that he would not be welcome at either.

Norman, the figurehead of the Saudi Arabian-backed LIV Series, won the Open in 1986 and 1993 but has now found himself in conflict with golf's existing ecosystem. In a statement, the R&A confirmed it felt having Norman at St Andrews would be an unwelcome distraction.