Greg Norman pleased to add 'outstanding' Henrik Stenson to LIV Golf series

Despite its criticism, the LIV Golf series continues to grow in numbers, with three further players joining the tournament's roster this week.

Former Ryder Cup captain Henrik Stenson is their headline recruit, while American duo Jason Kokrak and Charles Howell III have also signed up.

The 46-year-old Swede won the Open Championship back in 2016, and went on to become Europe's captain at the Ryder Cup before he was stripped of that duty on Wednesday "in light of decisions made in relation to his personal circumstances".

Greg Norman, CEO and commissioner of LIV Golf, said: "Henrik Stenson adds yet another outstanding resume to LIV Golf's global roster of elite players.

"His career performances spanning majors, season-long individual championships and international competitions have cemented him as a leader in today's game.

"The addition of Jason Kokrak, who has been consistently ranked amongst the world's best, and Charles Howell III, one of the United States' top competitors for years, along with English stand-out Paul Casey, further strengthens a field that will put on a show for the fans at Trump National Golf Club Bedminster.

"I'm excited for the third LIV Golf competition and can't wait for our shotgun start at this fantastic venue."

Responding to Ryder Cup Europe's statement, Stenson, who had hoped to combine his role with playing on the LIV tour, said he accepted their decision "for now", suggesting he may consider a similar path to that taken by fellow LIV rebels.

A group of players, led by the likes of Ian Poulter, mounted a successful legal challenge against the DP World Tour's decision to ban them from playing in the Scottish Open earlier this month.

The Swede, a former world number two, has 21 career wins to his name and has appeared in five Ryder Cups, playing his part in victories in 2006, 2014 and 2018. He will join Majesticks GC, captained by former world number one Lee Westwood.

Kokrak will compete for Smash GC, captained by four-time major champion Brooks Koepka, while Howell III will join forces with 2020 US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau's Crushers GC.

The field at Bedminster - the third event in the series - in New Jersey will include 11 major champions, four former world number ones and players from 13 different countries.

Participants in the controversial tour, which has split golf, are competing for a share of a $25million - around £21million - purse.