Golf: Olazabal attacks schedule
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Your support makes all the difference.Ken Schofield, the executive director of the European Tour, yesterday rejected criticism from the Masters champion, Jose Maria Olazabal, about next season's tournament schedule. Three of the first five venues in 1995 are Dubai, the Philippines and South Africa - and Olazabal, who this week decided not to join the United States Tour, commented: 'I think it's amazing. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw it. I don't think it's the right schedule. Next year is Ryder Cup year and there will be some players travelling all over the place to try to make the team. We're going to have some very tired players. I think the world tour has come - we are playing it.' But Schofield responded: 'No player is compelled to travel to all events. It is a difficult start to the season, but the players must make their own judgements. In going to South Africa we have really taken another step forward.' Prize money has still to be finalised, but Schofield stated that it will be up on this year's figure of nearly pounds 24m and with the Seniors' Tour and Challenge Tour added will be 'within reach' of pounds 30m.
Much of the increase comes from a new matchplay event which will involve players from all five world tours and will offer total prize money of pounds 2.3m through regional qualifying events and a four-man final. Olazabal may be staying in Europe, but Nick Faldo is joining the American Tour, because he considers the courses are better there. 'I've spoken to Nick and I respect his decision, but we are optimistic he will come back to the European Tour, as he did before,' Schofield stated.
(Photograph omitted)
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