As LIV Golf’s future hangs in the balance, two European Ryder Cup stars past and present revealed their intentions…
Ian Poulter is the latest LIV Golf team captain team captain to reveal he is leaving the stricken league.
The Englishman, who co-captains Majesticks GC with compatriot Lee Westwood, follows hot on the heels of Louis Oosthuizen and Jon Rahm through the LIV exit door.
In a statement on social media titled “life update”, Poulter wrote: “Hi all – I wanted everyone to hear it direct from me that I have decided to not move forward with being part of LIV 2.0.
“Needless to say, it was a tough decision and one I thought about and discussed at length with my family and team.
“Ultimately, the opportunity to spend more time at home with my family, reduce international travel, focus on senior golf and have the opportunity to pursue other interests was something that I felt was right for me at this stage of my life and career.
“Clearly, LIV Golf has divided opinion, but to be part of the founding group that took world class golf around the globe, showcased our great game to a new audience, built a team brand in Majesticks GC, helped innovate tournament formats and establish a leading community impact program in Little Sticks, is something I will be forever proud of. And that’s just scratching the surface of what we achieved together.
“Change is never easy and it’s fair to say professional golf has experienced plenty of it over the last few years. But I’ve always believed that change can create opportunity and ultimately lead to positive outcomes. There will undoubtedly be more changes ahead, but I am confident the game will continue to grow, evolve, and deliver the very best for golf fans around the world.
“I’m immensely grateful to everyone who has been part of my journey with LIV Golf, from my teammates and colleagues, league staff, partners and of course the fans who supported us along the way – thank you! We’ve shared some incredible experiences, created great memories, and built friendships that will last well beyond the golf course. Whatever happens next, I wish you nothing but the very best for the future.”
Majesticks captain and Ryder Cup legend Ian Poulter has quit LIV Golf. (Getty Images)
As for what’s next, the 50-year-old, who made just shy of $14 million in five years on LIV, added: “I’m genuinely excited about this next chapter. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family, continuing to develop The Postman YouTube channel, sharing more of my life, golf, experiences and competing in some senior events.
“Something I am also particularly looking forward to is being able to spend more time helping [eldest son] Luke as he pursues his career in professional golf, and [youngest son] Joshua as he looks to develop as a golfer in his teenage years. Having spent so many years traveling the world chasing my own golfing dreams, the opportunity to now spend more time supporting my boys as they chase theirs is something that means a great deal to me
“After all these years, golf has given me so much, and I’m excited about what lies ahead, both on and off the course. Thanks again to everyone who has been part of the journey so far! We certainly aren’t done yet!”
Tyrrell Hatton has decided he will not take part in LIV Golf 2.0. (Getty Images)
A few hours after Poulter’s revelation, Tyrrell Hatton confirmed he would also be on his way out.
In a much more shorter statement, the Ryder Cup and Legion XIII star – who has won 11 times across the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and LIV Golf and made almost $44 million in three seasons on the league – said he “will not be part of 2.0”, adding: “A big thank you to everyone for their continued support. I am excited for what the next chapter of my career holds.”
He concluded that he is “looking forward to seeing you all in Abu Dhabi”, where he will take part in the DP World Tour Playoffs.
Also confirming their LIV Golf exits are Hatton’s Legion XIII teammate Tom McKibbin, Southern Guards’ Branden Grace, and Ripper’s Lucas Herbert.
As it stands, just five players have publicly stated they are prepared to move on with LIV Golf 2.0, which will be funded by a $300 million injection from BC Partners, with the deadline for commitments set for October 25.