The Saudi-backed Super Golf League has caused all sorts of controversy in the sport. The PGA Tour, desiring zero competitors, has lashed out at the league while threatening a lifetime ban to any players who switched sides. Some stars, such as Phil Mickelson, became so engulfed in the league, which promised large amounts of prize money, that it eventually resulted in a tarnished reputation. Mickelson made some comments that he instantly regretted about the league. Clearly, players who get involved with the Super Golf League are doing so at great risk to their legacies. On Wednesday, former world no. 1 Lee Westwood made a shocking decision involving the rival league, following in the footsteps of Mickelson, as reported by ESPN.

Former World No. 1 golfer Lee Westwood told Sky Sports on Wednesday that he has requested releases from the PGA Tour and the DP World Tour to play in the first Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series event in London next month.

Westwood has requested releases from the PGA Tour in an effort to play in the Saudi Super Golf League's first event in June, the LIV Golf Invitational Series.

Westwood told reporters that any impact the decision has on his Ryder Cup captaincy is up to the European Tour. Mickelson publicly acknowledged that he asked for a release, so Westwood's move puts him among just three golfers who have gone public with their intentions.

The LIV Invitational features a $25 million purse. Westwood's potential participation in the Super Golf League not only jeopardizes his standing as a Ryder Cup captain and PGA Tour star, but also his public perception.