The LIV Golf era is losing more than just its biggest names. The 2025 LIV Golf Breakout Star of the Year award winner, 24-year-old David Puig, is officially leaving. He won’t be part of the league’s restructured future.
On October 8, the Spanish golfer declared a shift in his membership to the DP World Tour. He isn’t just looking for a change in scenery. He wants a more complete schedule. During the Spanish Open, which is a DP World Tour event, Puig told reporters he does not see himself playing in the LIV 2.0.
The move is a clear signal that the DP World Tour remains a vital destination for talent. Puig isn’t the only one looking toward Europe. Two-time Major champion Bryson DeChambeau is also considering more starts in the region.
The exodus from LIV continues
Puig’s departure follows a growing list of high-profile exits. He joins other Spanish stars like 31-year-old Jon Rahm and 46-year-old Sergio Garcia. Garcia recently received a release from his LIV contract. Puig himself spent time playing for Garcia’s Fireballs GC during his tenure with the league.
While Puig didn’t grab individual tournament wins during his four years with LIV, he proved he can compete. He secured his biggest professional victory last November at the Australian PGA Championship. He also kept his rights to play in certain Asian Tour and DP World Tour events.
The talent drain might be more permanent than some fans think. Puig noted his time with the league helped him grow. “For me (LIV) has been wonderful. It has made me a better player. Without a doubt I am super grateful, but next year I won’t be there.”
DeChambeau and the 2027 vision
The big question now involves Bryson DeChambeau. While he isn’t seeking full membership like Patrick Reed did at the start of 2026, his presence in Europe is likely. The Telegraph reported that DeChambeau’s team reached out to DP World Tour officials to check on tournament availability for 2027.
This isn’t just about one or two players. A DP World Tour spokesman recently noted the tour is seeing a “high volume of inbound interest and enquiries”, according to the Straits Times. The influx of talent could change the strength of the European circuit entirely.
The deadline for LIV commitments
LIV members have until October 25 to decide if they are staying for the next season. The league still needs to secure enough player commitments to satisfy the requirements of its partner, BC Partners Credit.
Right now, the list of those staying is incredibly short. Only England’s Richard Bland, age 53, has committed to the league so far. Bland has earned roughly US$20 million in LIV prize money since starting with the league in 2022.
