Europe’s Solheim Cup triumph could have a lasting impact after the Ladies European Tour confirmed it is in talks with the LPGA over a “true partnership”.
The two organisations have been working together since September’s biennial contest at Gleneagles - in which Europe beat the United States by a single point - to agree a “joint venture relationship” that will offer LET members more playing opportunities.
READ MORE: Work to be done after Solheim Cup showpiece
In a recent letter to players, LET board chair Marta Figueras-Dotti wrote: “This summer the LPGA and LET began discussions about a true partnership, where we would work together to build stronger tour schedules, create more financial stability and deliver a Ladies European Tour that could offer its members significantly more opportunities to compete, earn an income, and advance their professional career.”
The LET declined to reveal further details but added that the goal is to complete terms of the proposed joint venture in time to present it to players at their annual membership meeting in Spain on November 26.
The financial gulf between the LET and LPGA is enormous. Tournaments on this season’s LPGA had a total prize fund of approximately £55million, compared to around £12million on the LET, the majority of which came from two majors and the Ladies Scottish Open in the space of three weeks.
READ MORE: Europe win a thrilling Solheim Cup at Gleneagles
Meanwhile, Phil Mickelson admits he does not deserve a wild card for the Presidents Cup and feels US captain Tiger Woods has “a lot better options” at his disposal.
Mickelson has made 24 consecutive appearances in the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup. The last time he failed to make such a team was in 1993.
Asked about receiving one of the four wild cards, Mickelson said: “No, no, no. I have not played well in the last seven, eight months.
“There are much better options of players that have played consistently at a high level that deserve to be on the team. Even if I were to win (this week), I have not done enough to warrant a pick.”
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