Mastercard has announced that it has suspended its deals with Series LIV players Ian Poulter and Graeme McDowell, the company confirmed to ESPN.
Poulter had had dealings with the company since 2009 and McDowell had been linked to Mastercard since 2011, but due to their association with the controversial Tour and their suspension from the PGA, Mastercard put the deals on hold.
“We have suspended our relationship with Ian and Graeme, recognizing the uncertainty surrounding their future and their position with the PGA,” said vice president of communications Seth Eisen.
Mastercard hasn’t commented on how long the suspension will last or whether it’s a permanent decision, but the company is the latest to withdraw deals with players who joined the funded Series LIV. by the Saudis.
Rocket Mortgage recently suspended ties with Bryson DeChambeau, RBC cut ties with Dustin Johnson and McDowell, and Phil Mickelson lost three sponsors with WorkDay, KPMG and Amstel.
A few companies have taken a stance on the new league, while other companies have not shared comments or made a decision about sponsorships. Michelob Ultra and Nike have maintained their contracts with Brooks Koepka.
Poulter was also one of the players who filed a lawsuit in connection with his suspension from the Scottish Open. He and two other players won their battle and Poulter contested the tournament. He missed the weekend rounds.
