The PGA Tour recently introduced a "Returning Players Program" offering reinstatement to select LIV Golf players who meet specific criteria. The offer, which had a February 2 application deadline, was extended to major winners including Cameron Smith, Bryson DeChambeau, and Jon Rahm. While Brooks Koepka has since rejoined the PGA Tour, Smith, DeChambeau, and Rahm have each indicated their intention to remain with LIV Golf, citing existing commitments and satisfaction with their current playing situations.
PGA Tour's Reinstatement Program Details
The PGA Tour's "Returning Players Program" was designed to provide a pathway back for certain LIV Golf players. Eligibility for this program required players to have won a major championship or The Players Championship since 2022. The application deadline for eligible players was February 2. Among the players specifically extended this offer were Cameron Smith, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau, and Jon Rahm. Brooks Koepka subsequently rejoined the PGA Tour.
Golf writers Ryan Lavner and Rex Hoggard characterized the PGA Tour's initiative as a strategic move to reincorporate high-profile players. The eligibility criteria's cut-off date of 2022 was noted as specific, excluding other major winners who had joined LIV Golf. The inclusion of The Players Championship in the eligibility criteria was observed by some as an effort to elevate the status of that PGA Tour event.
Player Responses and Commitments
Cameron Smith
Cameron Smith, a prominent Australian golfer, confirmed his decision to remain with LIV Golf, declining the PGA Tour's reinstatement offer. He stated his commitment to his prior decision and expressed enthusiasm for the 2026 season with his team, Ripper GC. Smith cited satisfaction with his current lifestyle and career position, indicating that the possibility of rejoining the PGA Tour was not a significant temptation for him. Smith's continued presence on LIV Golf is noted for contributing to significant fan attendance at recent Australian tournaments, including LIV Adelaide.
Bryson DeChambeau
Bryson DeChambeau also stated his intention to remain with LIV Golf through the 2026 season, citing his current contract. During a press conference, he confirmed, "I'm contracted through 2026, so, excited about this year." He described discussions about his future beyond his current contract as an "ever-evolving conversation" requiring mutual agreement. DeChambeau engaged with the topic on social media, posting a photo next to an "Exit" sign with the caption, "What would you do?" In late December, he had commented on the need for improvements within the LIV circuit, stating, "Things have got to change. Things have got to improve," and "It's where I want to be, but ultimately, it's got to make sense for everybody." He also mentioned, "Because I could just do YouTube golf and be totally fine as well." DeChambeau's contract with LIV Golf is set to expire at the end of the current year, and the PGA Tour's exemption offer is seen by analysts as potentially providing him leverage in negotiations with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Jon Rahm
Jon Rahm has reportedly expressed no immediate interest in rejoining the PGA Tour. Reports from Spain further indicate he does not intend to leave LIV Golf.
Future Considerations and Challenges
Major Eligibility and World Rankings
A long-term challenge for players remaining with LIV Golf is their eligibility for major tournaments. Cameron Smith's five-year exemption from his 2022 Open Championship win is approaching its conclusion. His current world ranking of 207, while an improvement, is not sufficient for major starts without an exemption. This situation is compounded by LIV Golf events not currently receiving Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points.
LIV Golf's Pursuit of OWGR Points
LIV Golf is actively seeking OWGR accreditation, with its planned transition to 72-hole tournaments in 2026 identified as a key component of this effort. Ripper GC member Lucas Herbert highlighted the importance of obtaining world ranking points for major qualification and for LIV players to be integrated into the broader golf ecosystem.
Player Motivations and League Outlook
While expressing disappointment regarding Brooks Koepka's departure, Cameron Smith conveyed confidence that LIV Golf will continue to feature a strong field in 2026. For players like Smith, long-term considerations could include future participation in events like the Presidents Cup and the Olympic Games, having previously represented Australia in the Olympics, with a potential home Olympic Games in Brisbane in 2032. Marc Leishman, Smith's teammate, supported his decision to remain with LIV, noting the competitive environment within the league.