Bryson DeChambeau leaves and Brooks Koepka quits – LIV Golf’s worst case scenario

LIV Golf has been one of the biggest talking points in the world of golf since its inception, but could be set to lose a number of its biggest stars.

Since its launch, LIV Golf has lured numerous big names away from the PGA Tour, yet it faces the potential of losing them next year. The lucrative golf league, which began in October 2021 and held its first Invitational Series event in June 2022, shocked fans as several top PGA players defected for hefty paychecks.

Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, and Sergio Garcia reportedly signed four-year deals in 2022, diverting attention from the prestigious PGA to the new Saudi-funded league. However, with their contracts now set to expire next year, there’s speculation on whether they will remain with LIV or seek a fresh start elsewhere.

It has been claimed that salaries in the new LIV contracts could be reduced due to the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund’s intention to cut global spending by up to 12 per cent. In contrast, the PGA Tour has upped the ante with huge prize pools at flagship events and increased sponsorships driven by a growing audience. Express Sport examines what it could mean for LIV if DeChambeau, Koepka, and Garcia rejoined the PGA.

DeChambeau, Koepka and Garcia leave

If DeChambeau, Koepka, and Garcia decide to leave LIV Golf, the playing standard would certainly suffer. Following his US Open triumph last year, DeChambeau is the only LIV golfer currently ranked in the world’s top 10.

The 31-year-old reportedly signed a four-year deal worth £102million in June 2022. However, with his pay potentially being reduced, he might be tempted to rejoin the PGA Tour. While LIV could still succeed without DeChambeau – Jon Rahm is contracted until 2028 – his departure would be a significant blow. Likewise, if Koepka and Garcia followed suit, it could significantly impact LIV’s viewership.

With talents like Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods, Scottie Scheffler, and Xander Schauffele on the PGA, the addition of DeChambeau, Koepka, and Garcia would undoubtedly heighten the competition.