Reed Departs LIV to Rejoin PGA Tour

Casey Halston

Published: January 29, 2026 1:55 PM ET

The departure of Patrick Reed from LIV Golf to rejoin the PGA Tour marks a significant moment in professional golf. Reed is the second high-profile golfer to leave LIV after Brooks Koepka, raising questions about the future of the controversial league.

Patrick Reed’s Career Shift

Patrick Reed, a nine-time PGA Tour winner, announced his preference for traditional golf, stating on social media, “I’m a traditionalist at heart.” In 2022, Reed joined LIV Golf, reportedly for $50 million, but his tenure has now culminated in a return to the PGA Tour.

Achievements and Earnings

During his four years with LIV, Reed’s team, the 4 Aces, won seven team titles.
Individually, Reed secured only one victory during his time in the league.
Despite leaving, Reed pockets significant earnings from his contract with LIV.

Path to PGA Tour Reinstatement

Reed won’t be playing in the PGA Tour events immediately. He faces a waiting period until late August before he can officially compete. In the meantime, he will participate in the DP World Tour.

Last week, Reed won the Dubai Desert Classic, which adds to his momentum. To regain his PGA Tour membership, he must place in the top 10 on the DP World Tour or maintain past champion status. Both scenarios, however, exclude him from potential payouts in the Tour’s Player Equity Program until 2030.

Future Major Tournament Participation

Reed has an exemption to participate in the Masters following his third-place finish last year.
Currently, he ranks 29th in the world, which gives him a strong chance of qualifying for the three other major tournaments.
He is also eligible to be a captain’s pick for this year’s Presidents Cup.

Impact on LIV Golf

Reed’s decision to leave is significant for LIV Golf, which has already lost Brooks Koepka. This resignation impacts the league’s visibility and popularity, particularly as LIV struggles with gaining attention in the competitive golfing landscape.

Challenges Ahead for LIV Golf

LIV CEO Scott O’Neil faces challenges to retain talent, with players like Kevin Na and Hudson Swafford reportedly seeking reinstatement to the PGA Tour. They won’t be able to return until at least January 2027.

Current prominent LIV golfers include Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, and Cam Smith, but many are past their peak performance levels.
New additions like Ben An and Thomas Detry are not drawing major fanfare.

Upcoming LIV Events

LIV Golf is set to commence its fifth season in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with all rounds played under lights. Changes to the structure include increasing tournament lengths from 54 to 72 holes, along with efforts to secure world ranking points.

Additionally, O’Neil has signed a television deal with Fox to increase the league’s visibility in the U.S., but the results have been underwhelming. Meanwhile, there are no plans for LIV events in Canada, limiting its reach and impact.

As LIV Golf navigates these transitions, the longevity of its backing remains uncertain, especially as it loses key players.