Patrick Reed will return to the PGA Tour in summer 2026, announcing his departure from LIV Golf. Other players also make the switch.
The nine-time PGA Tour winner Patrick Reed is returning from LIV Golf to the PGA Tour. After relinquishing his membership in 2022 to play on the LIV Golf Tour, he has now offered his return to the PGA Tour.
“After careful consideration, my family and I have decided that I will no longer play on the LIV Golf Tour. I am pleased to announce that I will return to the PGA Tour as a Past Champion for the 2027 season.” He views his time at LIV positively, emphasizing the importance of family in his decision to return: “I enjoyed my time at LIV Golf. I have become a different person through the friendships I made with the players. Family is my priority, and playing closer to them is what truly matters to me. I do not get any days back.”
His victory at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic on the DP World Tour also strengthened his decision. He realized how much he missed competing with others.
Return Circumstances
From summer, he will be eligible to start as a non-member. The PGA Tour justifies the early return by noting that Reed gave up his membership in 2022 before any breach of rules by participating in other tours occurred. Reed will participate in PGA Tour events again from August 25, 2026, under the Past Champion category. Additionally, he may improve his PGA Tour status through the DP World Tour, where he remains an honorary lifetime member. Participation in FedEx Cup events in the fall will require qualification or sponsor exemptions.
Like with the Returning Member Program, through which Brooks Koepka returns, Reed, as a former tour member returning to the PGA Tour, will be excluded from the Player Equity Program until 2030.
LIV Golf confirmed his departure in a statement, saying no contract extension was reached. They thanked Reed for his efforts at the 4Aces Golf Club and emphasized their support for players to play “where and when they want,” respecting Reed’s decision.
Other Former LIV Players Returning
Reed’s return is not an isolated case. There are movements among three other former LIV players. Kevin Na, Pat Perez, and Hudson Swafford have already regained their PGA Tour memberships but still have pending disciplinary matters to resolve.
While Perez and Swafford will be able to compete again starting January 1, 2027, Kevin Na’s exact return date remains unclear as the tour continues to review his situation.
— Patrick Reed (@PReedGolf) September 22, 2024