Sergio Garcia confirms LIV Golf exit, targeting a sensational return to the DP World Tour and the European Ryder Cup team.
Sergio Garcia has become the latest high-profile golfer to leave LIV Golf, announcing his return to the Europe-based DP World Tour for the 2027 season. The 46-year-old Spaniard confirmed his departure following a major shift in the breakaway circuit, which filed for bankruptcy protection in the United States last month after losing key financial backing from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.
The former world number two, who won the 2017 Masters, stated that he is also keeping his options open for a potential return to the PGA Tour. Garcia originally joined the Saudi-backed project in June 2022, but he is now walking away alongside other prominent players like Jon Rahm, Ian Poulter, Tyrrell Hatton, and Graeme McDowell, according to information published by BBC.
With the LIV 2.0 project struggling to secure commitments for 2027, Garcia is shifting his focus back to traditional circuits. He aims to strengthen personal relationships and make a dramatic comeback to the European team, targeting a presence at Ireland's Adare Manor next year as either a player or a vice-captain.
Garcia and the DP World Tour Eligibility Rules
Garcia was previously sanctioned by the DP World Tour for breaking its rules when he defected to the breakaway league, making him ineligible for the 2023 Ryder Cup. To regain eligibility for the 2025 edition, the record points scorer had to settle outstanding fines reported to be more than £1m, although he was ultimately not selected for the team.
Under current tour regulations, while Garcia is eligible to compete as a player once again, he is currently barred from serving as a future captain or vice-captain. Despite these restrictions, the veteran golfer remains determined to be an asset to his fellow teammates in whatever capacity is permitted during future international competitions.
An Awkward PGA Tour Reunion Ahead
A return to traditional circuits may also bring an awkward reunion with the PGA Tour authorities for the Spanish star. Just before departing for the Saudi-backed league in 2022, Garcia notoriously told a rules official at the Wells Fargo Championship that he could not wait to leave the circuit and would no longer have to deal with them.
Despite past friction, Garcia remains fully eligible to compete in major championships. He recently made headlines at Augusta National after slamming his driver into the turf and snapping the head off his club following a poor shot, an action for which he promptly apologized and expressed regret.
Chasing Another Green Jacket at Augusta
Looking ahead to the upcoming major calendar, Garcia is eager to prove his mental readiness and focus on competitive golf. He stated that there are several great tournaments around the world to play before Augusta next April, and he cannot wait to return to the historic venue.
Reflecting on his past frustrations at the tournament, Garcia noted that he left Augusta disappointed with his actions and is now ready to show what he has learned. Having secured some of the greatest moments of his career there, including his 2017 victory, he would love nothing more than to chase another green jacket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Sergio Garcia leave LIV Golf?
Sergio Garcia left LIV Golf following the withdrawal of financial backing from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund and the league filing for bankruptcy protection in the United States.
Can Sergio Garcia play in the Ryder Cup again?
Yes, Garcia is eligible to play on the DP World Tour again and hopes to return to Europe's Ryder Cup team as a player or vice-captain, though current rules prevent him from serving as captain.
What are Garcia's plans for the PGA Tour and majors?
Garcia is keeping his options open for a return to the PGA Tour and remains eligible to compete in major championships, expressing a strong desire to play in the Masters at Augusta.
