LIV Golf players consider leaving for DP World Tour

As the 2025-26 season of the DP World Tour nears its final four tournaments, the upcoming season, starting in Australia on November 26, may see a significant influx of players from LIV Golf. Many of these players are not fully committed to LIV Golf’s new plan, known as LIV 2.0, which aims to revitalize the breakaway circuit.

Defections continue from LIV Golf

The defections from LIV Golf are now happening at a steady pace. Following the departure of Jon Rahm, a key figure in LIV Golf, his compatriots David Puig and Sergio Garcia have indicated they are unlikely to support the LIV 2.0 revival plan. This is despite a $300 million investment by BC Partners Credit and an extension of the deadline for players to commit to the circuit until October 25.

Many top players may join DP World Tour

Several LIV Golf players currently ranked in the top 100 of the Race to Dubai are reportedly in talks to join the DP World Tour. These players are not part of the group that had already signed agreements to participate in additional events after settling their fines. Players like Victor Perez, David Puig, Adrian Meronk, Tyrrell Hatton, Tom McKibbin, and Thomas Detry are among those considering a move.

Status of external players is uncertain

Players who are not already affiliated with the DP World Tour face a more complicated situation. Limited contracts are reportedly being discussed at Wentworth, the European Tour’s headquarters. These players might receive a specific number of invitations based on their "legitimacy," with some players like Cameron Smith, Joaquin Niemann, and Bryson DeChambeau likely to be considered more credible than others.

DP World Tour outlines conditions for new players

A representative of the DP World Tour stated that the organization is reviewing conditions for welcoming new players, provided they are free from contractual obligations and agree to follow the tour’s regulations. The tournament committee has approved the procedure, and more requests are expected in the coming days.

European Cards may provide another path

The possibility of obtaining a European Card remains a consideration for some LIV Golf players. Players such as Jose Luis Ballester, Luis Masaveu, and Michael La Sasso have already passed an initial hurdle. However, the path to securing a European Card is long, and a return to the PGA Tour is no longer a realistic option for most ambitious players. Jon Rahm, for example, will need to wait until August 2027 before he can return to the PGA Tour.