Colin Montgomerie and US Open champion Michael Campbell have chided America's top golfers for skipping the World Match Play in Wentworth. No American will compete in the event, which offers a first prize of �1m.
"They still feel there is a safety issue here in Europe," said Montgomerie. "We try and tell them it's okay but they have their own views."
Campbell added: "It's disheartening that we have the biggest prize in the world and half the guys don't turn up."
None of the world's top four players are taking part, with world number one Tiger Woods and number three Phil Mickelson staying in America.
World number two Vijay Singh of Fiji also turned down an invitation while six-time winner Ernie Els is recovering from a knee injury.
Americans Chris DiMarco, Fred Couples and Davis Love have also turned down the chance to play in the 16-man field.
"It's unfortunate for the tournament," said former winner Montgomerie, who believes this summer's London bombings are a factor.
Campbell feels next week's Presidents Cup, which takes place in the United States, may also have convinced the Americans to stay away.
"It is a long way to come for one week and go back again," said Campbell.
"But I feel for the sponsors because they put up a lot of money, this is the richest first prize in all of golf, and the tournament is not as strong as they would like to have it.
"You can say it's probably a slap in the face to the sponsors.
"It leaves a very bad taste in your mouth from a sponsor's point of view and the general public here."
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It leaves a very bad taste in your mouth from a sponsor's point of view and the general public here
