by Golfweek.com

It's Un-American!

The LPGA on Friday reversed course and rescinded its policy that golfers who do not pass an English proficiency test would have their membership suspended. Mark Kriegel argued against the rule last week, blasting the LPGA for its un-American approach. Check it out HERE.

The LPGA will announce a revised plan by the end of 2008 — but the new plan will not include penalties.

"We have decided to rescind those penalty provisions," LPGA commissioner Caryolyn Bivens said in a statement released by the LPGA Friday. "After hearing the concerns, we believe there are other ways to achieve our shared objective of supporting and enhancing the business opportunities for every tour player."

The announcement came two hours before the Asian Pacific American Legal Center planned a news conference in Los Angeles, where it was to be joined by civil rights groups and elected officials demanding the LPGA overturn its policy.

Bivens disclosed the tour's original plan in a meeting with South Korean players at the Safeway Classic in Portland, Ore., two weeks ago, a story first reported by Golfweek. The policy, which had not been completed, was widely criticized as discriminatory, particularly against Asian players, who won three majors this year.

Golfweek.com

From event coverage to commentary to fantasy tips, Golfweek.com provides all you'll ever need to be up to speed on the world of golf.

A California state senator was seeking a legal opinion to determine whether the tour's language requirement for players violated state or federal law. Leland Yee, a Democrat for San Francisco, hoped for an answer before the LPGA returned to California in October for the Samsung World Championship.

An official from one of the tour's title sponsors, State Farm, had said it was "dumbfounded" by the initiative.

"We don't understand this and we don't know why they have done it," State Farm spokesman Kip Diggs told Advertising Age. "And we have strongly encouraged them to take another look at this."

Bivens said the tour will continue to help international players through a cultural program that has been in place for three years and offers tutors and translators.

From tee to green and everything in between, check out Golfweek.com.