I don't have a problem with the PGA tour wanting to be exclusive.
They are free to set up their model however they see fit, IMO.

Exclusivity has it's own allure and can help hold a league in an "elite" position if they attract the best players consistently.

This is just the first time we've seen enough prize money and contract money being thrown at players that golfers would consider a different tour/series.

So far it's just guys who are confident they won't be able to make that kind of money on the PGA tour, don't mind losing sponsors, and value the guaranteed dollar signs above any sort of legacy as a competitor.
I don't blame them for making that decision any more than I blame the PGA for wanting to attempt to maintain their "elite" status and wanting to distance themselves from a tour/series they view as shady due to the politics of those funding it.

I don't have a lot of respect for the people who pay me, but I never turn it down.
So I can't judge these golfer making the move.
At the same time the PGA tour has every right to put rules and guidelines in place for inclusion in their competitions.

---