Ian Poulter with Henrik Stenson and Lee Westwood after the Swede’s win at LIV Golf Boston

By Matt Smith
English golf star and Ryder Cup legend has come out fighting for his long-time friend and now fellow LIV Golfer Henrik Stenson after the Swedish Golf Federation has announced it has ended its relationship with the 2016 Open Championship winner.

The Swedish former world No. 2 was informed by his home nation’s golf programme that it is brining its partnership with him to an end.

Responding to the news, Poulter took to Twitter to defend his Majesticks teammate on a Golf Digest post.

“Beyond disappointing to hear this news,” Poulter wrote. “I actually hope the Juniors/Disability golfers have their say. I hope you regret this SGF. The greatest Swedish male golfer. The Open Champ, 2x Race to Dubai winner, FedEx Cup champ, Players Champ. Just to name a few of Henrik Stenson wins.”

Stenson confirmed the Swedish Golf Federation news on Instagram.

“Naturally, we are disappointed the SGF feel that our commitment and financial support via the Henrik Stenson Foundation is no longer wanted, but this will in no way impact our drive to develop junior and paragolf in Sweden,” he wrote.

Stenson was removed as Ryder Cup captaincy over the summer after he announced he would be joining LIV Golf. The 46-year-old made his debut at the third event of the series’ inaugural season at Bedminster at the end of July, grabbing international headlines by sensationally winning the event and claiming the $4 million first-place prize money.

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