The future of the Saudi-backed golf circuit remains precarious following the departure of two prominent English golfers. Ian Poulter and Tyrrell Hatton have officially confirmed they will not be joining the reorganized LIV 2.0 venture, further depleting the roster after the exits of major champions such as Jon Rahm and Louis Oosthuizen. Englishmen Ian Poulter and Tyrrell Hatton are the latest star names to confirm they are quitting LIV Golf – leaving the breakaway tour’s future looking increasingly uncertain.
Financial and Operational Challenges
The league has faced extreme volatility since the Saudi Public Investment Fund pulled its financial support in April of this year. The fund had previously invested upwards of $5bn (£3.8bn) into the project before withdrawing, a move that prompted the organization to file for bankruptcy protection in the United States last month. While the league has managed to secure a potential $300m (£224m) in rescue financing from BC Partners Credit to attempt a relaunch under the LIV 2.0 banner, the number of participants willing to commit to the 2027 season remains minimal. But only a handful of players have so far committed to the proposed competition in 2027, it has secured a possible $300m (£224m) in financing from BC Partners Credit to try to move forward with ‘LIV 2.0’.
The Players’ Decisions
- Ian Poulter, 50, originally joined the circuit during its inaugural year in 2022.
- Tyrrell Hatton, 35, became a league signee in 2024.
- Both players have extensive experience representing Europe in the Ryder Cup, with Poulter participating seven times and Hatton four times.
Poulter took to social media to address his departure, stating: “I wanted everyone to hear it direct from me that I have decided to not move forward with being part of LIV 2.0.
He acknowledged the complexity of the choice, noting, “Needless to say, it was a tough decision and one I thought about and discussed at length with my family and team.
Regarding his future, Poulter expressed a desire to dedicate more time to family life, minimize extensive international travel, and shift his focus toward senior golf opportunities and the expansion of his personal YouTube channel. He specifically mentioned supporting the professional sporting ambitions of his two sons, Luke and Joshua.
Tyrrell Hatton released a similarly brief announcement via his Instagram account. “Wanted to confirm I will not be part of a LIV 2.0,” the golfer wrote. In a follow-up remark, Hatton thanked his supporters for their loyalty and stated that he is optimistic regarding the next chapter of his professional career. Hatton, 35, made a brief statement his Instagram account which confirmed his decision to leave the event.
