Why Did Rahm, DeChambeau, and Smith Choose LIV Golf Over the PGA?

Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith, all recent major winners, have confirmed their commitment to LIV Golf instead of returning to the PGA Tour, despite an initiative allowing players to rejoin the PGA. This decision comes after Brooks Koepka was accepted back into the PGA after leaving LIV Golf, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the two circuits. The new PGA Tour programme is a limited-time opportunity aimed at major winners who have been away for at least two years, but Rahm, DeChambeau, and Smith have made it clear they will not take this path.

Last updated: 18 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As of mid-October 2023, the golf world is abuzz with the decisions of Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith to remain with LIV Golf. This announcement was made during a recent news conference for LIV Golf captains, where all three reaffirmed their commitment to the Saudi-backed series. Their decision comes in the wake of Brooks Koepka’s return to the PGA Tour, which offered a potential pathway for other major winners to rejoin the established circuit. The PGA Tour's new returning member programme has opened a limited window until 2 February 2024, but these three players have opted to stay with LIV, rejecting the opportunity posed by the PGA.

Key takeaways

Rahm, DeChambeau, and Smith have confirmed they will not return to the PGA Tour.
Brooks Koepka has successfully rejoined the PGA Tour after leaving LIV Golf.
The PGA Tour’s new initiative is available until 2 February 2024 for eligible players.

Timeline: how we got here

The recent developments regarding LIV Golf and the PGA Tour can be traced through several key milestones:

2022: Cam Smith wins The Open Championship, marking his entry into the ranks of major winners.
2023: Jon Rahm captures the Masters, further establishing his status in the golfing elite.
June 2023: Bryson DeChambeau wins the US Open, solidifying his place among major champions.
October 2023: Brooks Koepka is accepted back into the PGA Tour after leaving LIV Golf.
October 2023: Rahm, DeChambeau, and Smith announce their commitment to LIV Golf at a news conference.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The most significant recent update is the reaffirmation by Rahm, DeChambeau, and Smith of their commitment to LIV Golf. This decision comes after the PGA Tour's announcement regarding the new returning member programme, which has been described as a one-time opportunity for a select group of players.

What was already established

Prior to this announcement, Brooks Koepka had successfully transitioned back to the PGA Tour, creating speculation that other major winners might consider a return. The PGA Tour’s initiative aimed to attract players who had been away for two years and had won significant championships, but the commitment from Rahm, DeChambeau, and Smith signals a clear intent to remain within the LIV framework.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK golf fans, the ongoing rivalry between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour will continue to affect viewership and event attendance. LIV Golf's growing prominence may lead to increased interest from sponsors and partnerships, potentially altering the landscape of professional golf in the UK. Fans may have to navigate between different tournament schedules and formats, impacting their engagement with the sport.

Businesses and jobs

The ongoing rivalry could have ramifications for businesses associated with golf, from local businesses near tournament venues to larger sponsors and broadcasters. The presence of LIV Golf may also influence hiring practices and sponsorship deals, as companies reassess their affiliations based on player commitments and fan engagement levels.

Policy and regulation

The decision of these major winners to remain with LIV Golf could prompt further discussions within the UK golf community regarding player pathways, sponsorship, and regulatory frameworks. As both circuits continue to evolve, UK golf authorities may need to adapt their policies to accommodate the changing landscape, especially concerning player eligibility and tournament governance.

Numbers that matter

3: The number of major winners (Rahm, DeChambeau, Smith) who have publicly committed to LIV Golf.
2026: The year until which DeChambeau's contract with LIV Golf is set to run.
2 February 2024: The deadline for PGA Tour players to take advantage of the returning member programme.

Definitions and jargon buster

LIV Golf: A professional golf tour backed by Saudi Arabia, aiming to attract top players worldwide.
PGA Tour: The main professional golf tour in the United States, featuring a series of tournaments throughout the year.
Major winners: Golfers who have won one of the sport's four most prestigious tournaments: The Masters, US Open, The Open Championship, and PGA Championship.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, the focus will be on how LIV Golf plans to structure its upcoming tournaments and whether additional players will follow Koepka's lead. The PGA Tour will also be monitoring the impact of its returning member programme and how it is received by other players.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Over the next few months, it will be crucial to observe the ongoing dynamics between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. Players’ performances in upcoming tournaments will also impact their marketability and sponsorship opportunities.

Signals to watch

Performance of LIV Golf events and their viewership numbers.
Any announcements regarding player movements between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour.
Reactions from sponsors and sponsors’ commitments to either tour.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about upcoming LIV Golf events and player commitments.
Engage with local golf communities to discuss the implications of the ongoing rivalry.
Follow sponsorship developments related to both tours to understand market shifts.

Don’t

Assume that player commitments are permanent; the situation can change rapidly.
Neglect the importance of fan engagement; it will shape the future of both tours.
Overlook the potential impact of these developments on amateur and grassroots golf.

Checklist

Monitor LIV Golf and PGA Tour schedules for potential overlaps.
Check player rosters regularly for changes in commitments.
Evaluate local and national media coverage for updates on the ongoing rivalry.
Engage with golf clubs and societies to gauge local sentiment.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the players have made their current commitments clear, the landscape of professional golf is continually evolving. Market dynamics, player performances, and sponsorship deals can shift rapidly. Additionally, fan reactions could influence future decisions by players and sponsors alike. The PGA Tour’s returning member programme is a one-time initiative, and the long-term effects of its implementation remain to be seen.

Bottom line

The ongoing decisions of major winners to remain with LIV Golf signify a critical moment in professional golf’s evolving landscape. As the PGA Tour adapts to these changes, fans and stakeholders must navigate the implications for tournament schedules, player commitments, and overall engagement with the sport.

FAQs

Are major winners allowed to return to the PGA Tour?

Yes, under the new PGA Tour initiative, certain major winners who have been away for at least two years can return, but this window is limited until 2 February 2024.

What prompted Brooks Koepka's return to the PGA Tour?

Brooks Koepka cited personal reasons, primarily focusing on his family's needs, as a reason for leaving LIV Golf and returning to the PGA Tour.

How long are the contracts for players in LIV Golf?

Contracts for players in LIV Golf can vary; for example, Bryson DeChambeau's contract runs through 2026, showcasing long-term commitments within the series.