Australian PGA champion Jed Morgan planning to contest as many LIV Golf Invitational Series events as possible

Australian PGA winner Jed Morgan has no qualms about competing in the controversial Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series.

“Mixed opinions” on Greg Norman’s LIV Golf Invitational Series won’t stop Australian PGA champion Jed Morgan playing regularly on the lucrative and controversial Saudi-backed circuit.

As part of his preparations for his maiden major – this month’s US Open – Morgan will play in the opening LIV series event next week at London’s Centurion Club.

Not yet a member of either the PGA Tour or the DP World Tour, Morgan isn’t concerned about possible repercussions for taking part in the LIV series, which could impact his capacity to defend his PGA title.

Instead, the 22-year-old Queenslander intends to play as many of the LIV series’ eight events as possible in the next four months, with a $35 million prize pool on offer for the first, no-cut event in London this month where he will compete with Masters champions Dustin Johnson and Sergio Garcia and is guaranteed a cheque.

“The opinions on the Saudi league are very mixed depending on which stage of your career you’re in,” Morgan said.

“My opinion is simple – I just want to take everyone opportunity I can to compete at this stage in my career and I’m grateful for the opportunity to compete regularly over the next four months in LIV.”

Jed Morgan celebrates his Australian PGA win. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

The LIV series has attracted former world No.1 Johnson, who has reportedly been paid a staggering $A174m to play the eight-tournament tour.

Even the last-placed golfer in the first event at Centurion will earn more than $160,000 such is the money on offer.

Along with Johnson and Garcia, ex-US Open champion Graeme McDowell, former world number ones Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer as well as Ian Poulter, Kevin Na and Australia’s Matt Jones are among the players Morgan is keen to pit himself against.

“Having those big names only makes it more exciting,” Morgan said.

Morgan, who has been in the US since late month, shot a four-over 76 on Friday morning (AEST) in the first round of the PGA Tour’s Memorial Tournament, where he was invited to play.

“I’m feeling very keen for my first PGA tour event – it's going to be something special,” he said before the opening round.

“There are a few Aussies in the field which is comforting. I haven’t received much advice other than from the ones that are in my support crew.

“The guys I’m mates with I try to stay out of their professional business and just try to be mates with them.”