Patrick Reed to Rejoin PGA Tour from LIV Golf in August
Patrick Reed, the former Masters champion, has announced his departure from the LIV Golf league and plans to rejoin the PGA Tour. This confirmation came during an interview with ESPN.
Timeline of Reed’s Return to the PGA Tour
Reed, who secured his only major championship title at the 2018 Masters, left the PGA Tour in June 2022 to join LIV Golf. His expected return to the PGA Tour is set for August 25, 2023, nearly one year after his last appearance in a LIV event.
Personal Reflections and Future Goals
In his statement, Reed expressed gratitude for the friendships formed during his time at LIV. However, he emphasized that family comes first and desires to play closer to them. He stated, “I can’t get days back,” highlighting the importance of time spent with loved ones.
Eligibility and Competitive Landscape
As Reed rejoins the PGA Tour, he will strive to participate in the FedEx Cup fall events. He will use open qualifiers and sponsor exemptions, as he is currently a non-member. Reed has requested reinstatement of his PGA Tour membership for the 2027 season, citing his past champion status.
- Reed is currently ranked No. 2 in the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai points standings.
- Winning a tournament this fall or finishing in the top 10 could improve his status for 2024.
Return Agreements and Future Participation
As part of his agreement to return, Reed will relinquish his player equity in PGA Tour Enterprises until 2030. Additionally, he is eligible for a captain’s pick on the 2026 U.S. Presidents Cup team.
PGA Tour’s Reinstatement Process
The PGA Tour has reiterated its commitment to maintain fairness and integrity in the reinstatement process for former members. Tyler Dennis and Jason Gore, PGA Tour officials, sent a memo outlining that reinstatement terms are consistent and not individually negotiated.
Recent Competitions and Ranking
Patrick Reed recently clinched victory at the Dubai Desert Classic. After this win, he identified himself as a free agent and commented on missing the competitive nature of golf. He is set to compete in the Bahrain Championship on the DP World Tour and has made a total of 10 appearances in 2025.
Status and Future Events
Currently ranked 29th in the Official World Golf Ranking, Reed is assured participation in the four major tournaments, benefiting from his lifetime exemption to the Masters.
Brooks Koepka’s Return
Reed is not the only golfer transitioning back to the PGA Tour. Brooks Koepka also returned through the new Returning Member Program. This program is exclusive to those who have won a major or the Players Championship since 2022. Koepka’s decision to return has sparked conversations about athletes seeking out the PGA Tour for heightened competition.
Future Implications
Other LIV golfers are also eyeing the possibility of returning, though many have indicated they will remain with LIV this season. The window for LIV golfers to apply for reinstatement will close soon.
Overall, Reed’s shift from LIV Golf back to the PGA Tour signifies a broader trend of players reassessing their commitments. Reed’s determination to earn his way back reflects a desire to compete at the highest level of golf, reinforcing the PGA Tour as the premier destination for elite golfers.
