Former Open champion Louis Oosthuizen leaves LIV Golf and plans a return to the DP World Tour in 2027.
Former Open Championship winner Louis Oosthuizen has announced his departure from LIV Golf, describing the move as the hardest decision of his professional career. The 44-year-old South African golfer joined the breakaway league in 2022 and served as captain of the Southern Guards GC team.
The departure comes after LIV Golf filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States last September. This financial restructuring followed the decision by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund to withdraw its multibillion-dollar backing from the organization.
Oosthuizen now plans to return to the DP World Tour in 2027 after securing a more flexible playing schedule, according to information published by BBC.
Louis Oosthuizen departure reasons from LIV Golf
Explaining his exit on social media, Louis Oosthuizen stated that managing the schedule for LIV 2.0 would be too difficult. The 2010 Open champion wants to remain competitive during his final years in professional golf, requiring a schedule he can fully control.
Reflecting on his time with the team format, Louis Oosthuizen noted that moving away from the traditional golf world five years ago was one of his best decisions. He remains a strong supporter of team golf, believing the sport needs more of it in the future.
Financial restructuring and bankruptcy of LIV Golf
The league faced severe financial pressure after Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund withdrew its funding. In response, LIV Golf filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States to restructure its operations.
To survive and prepare for the 2027 season, LIV Golf has secured a possible $300 million in financing from BC Partners Credit. This funding aims to keep the controversial golf circuit operational moving forward.
DP World Tour membership rules and player exits
Louis Oosthuizen is not the only high-profile player to leave the circuit. Other prominent golfers, including Thomas Pieters, Sergio Garcia, Abraham Ancer, David Puig, and Adrian Meronk, have also announced their departures.
DP World Tour CEO Guy Kinnings stated earlier this month that players who continue participating in LIV Golf will not be allowed to hold European tour membership next season, forcing athletes to choose between circuits.
Jon Rahm separation agreement and PGA Tour returns
Last week, two-time major winner Jon Rahm gave up a reported £75 million owed to him by LIV Golf after reaching a formal separation agreement with the organization.
Some former league players have already returned to traditional circuits. Brooks Koepka rejoined the PGA Tour after the organization rewrote its rules in December to permit his return, though it remains subject to specific sanctions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Louis Oosthuizen quit LIV Golf?
Louis Oosthuizen quit LIV Golf because he feared the schedule on LIV 2.0 would be too tough to manage, preferring a flexible schedule to remain competitive.
When will Louis Oosthuizen return to the DP World Tour?
Louis Oosthuizen plans to return to the DP World Tour in 2027 after leaving LIV Golf and securing control over his playing schedule.
What financial issues did LIV Golf face?
LIV Golf filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States after Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund withdrew its financial backing.
Who else has left LIV Golf recently?
Players such as Thomas Pieters, Sergio Garcia, Abraham Ancer, David Puig, Adrian Meronk, and Jon Rahm have also recently departed.
