Golf-LPGA changes stance on controversial English rule

MIAMI, Sept 5 (Reuters) - The LPGA Tour has rescinded a controversial policy announced last week whereby top women players failing to speak English adequately on the U.S. circuit could be suspended.

After sparking widespread criticism with new rules proposed for 2009, LPGA Commissioner Carolyn Bivens said on Friday the proposed policy would be revised by the end of this year.

"The LPGA has received valuable feedback from a variety of constituents regarding the recently announced penalties attached to our effective communications policy," Bivens said in a statement.

"We have decided to rescind those penalty provisions. 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.

"In that spirit, we will continue communicating with our diverse Tour players to develop a better alternative. The LPGA will announce a revised approach, absent playing penalties, by the end of 2008."

Bivens said the Tour would continue to help international players improve their English through a three-year-old cultural programme which provides tutors and translators.

There are 121 international players from 26 countries on the LPGA Tour, including 45 from South Korea alone.

(Writing by Mark Lamport-Stokes in New York; Editing by Ken Ferris)