Report: Bivens out as LPGA commissioner

BETHLEHEM, Pa., July 9 (UPI) -- Golfweek magazine reported Thursday that the LPGA Tour has decided not to retain Commissioner Carolyn Bivens for the final two years of her contract.

Bivens has been involved in a series of controversies during her four years on the job and recently came under attack from a group of high-profile players.

A group that included Lorena Ochoa, Michelle Wie, Juli Inkster and Paula Creamer sent a letter to the LPGA board of directors asking that Bivens be dismissed, published reports indicated.

Only 10 tournaments have been officially lined up for the 2010 LPGA Tour schedule.

A statement from LPGA spokesman David Higdon said the tour is focused on play at this week's U.S. Women's Open.

"Out of respect to the USGA and the amazing work that they've done and continue to do in producing and hosting this great event, we will not respond to media reports on internal matters related to the LPGA business," Higdon said.

During her first year as commissioner, Bivens said all stories and photos prepared at a tournament site were the property of the LPGA Tour. Golf reporters and photographers had to sign a statement saying the tour had property rights over their work before they could obtain credentials to cover a tournament in Hawaii.

As a result, no media covered the tournament, including the local newspaper and the declaration was quickly voided.

Bivens also said last year the tour players would have to demonstrate an ability to communicate in English, a move that enraged non-Americans on the circuit. That edict was soon rescinded.