Kaymer stays on European Tour

In the on-going debate about what Tour to play on next season, the European Tour received yet another boost as USPGA champion and leader of ‘Race to Dubai’ Martin Kaymer pledged his future for the 2011 season.

The world number three could have taken up a five year exemption on the US Tour following his play-off victory at Whistling Straits back in August.

Kaymer said: “"To play both doesn't fit schedule-wise, I consider the European Tour as my home.

"I think you play against the best players in the world. You have all of the great players here.

"I will stick to the European Tour. I will play probably two or three more events in America but I will play in Europe."

The news follows world number one Lee Westwood’s decision to stay on the European Tour and Rory McIlroy’s return for the 2011 season.

Cheif Executive of the European Tour George O’Grady was delighted when he heard the news that one his start names will still be competing on Tour:

"Naturally enough we're delighted he's going to show us such full support," he said. "The dates set a tough challenge for everybody on where they play and we've always said to players that you must do what's right for your development as a player.

"To be a great golfer you've got to be a great player in America as well, but you are going to go there for the three majors if you are at that level, three world championships and other ones.

"Playing the European Tour gives you those opportunities. They can play anywhere in the world now."

This news comes off the back of the announcement that the Irish Open is staying on the 2011 tour schedule.

Mobile phone network 3 pulled out of sponsoring the event after two year adding to fears it will be cut from the schedule, however tourism authority Failte Ireland has full confidence the tournament will go ahead.