The R&A have opted against inviting two-time Open champion Greg Norman to the Champions Dinner at St Andrew's.
The Australian, a 1986 champion at Turnberry and in 1993 at Royal St George’s, has been a key figure in the sporting media as CEO of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf tour.
And while other former champions will take part in a four-hole challenge on the Old Course on Monday, Norman's potential presence has clearly been viewed as an unwelcome distraction.
"In response to enquiries regarding The R&A Celebration of Champions field and the Champions’ Dinner, we can confirm that we contacted Greg Norman to advise him that we decided not to invite him to attend on this occasion," a statement read.
"The 150th Open is an extremely important milestone for golf and we want to ensure that the focus remains on celebrating the Championship and its heritage.
"Unfortunately, we do not believe that would be the case if Greg were to attend. We hope that when circumstances allow Greg will be able to attend again in future."
LIV Golf has so far staged two of its planned eight events in 2022, with 2017 Open champion Jordan Spieth describing rumours that he was considering joining the breakaway circuit as "categorically untrue" on Friday evening.
