English golf stars Ian Poulter and Tyrrell Hatton have confirmed their departures from LIV Golf, further casting doubt on the future of the Saudi-backed breakaway league. The duo joins a string of high-profile exits, including major champions Jon Rahm and Louis Oosthuizen. Additionally, Northern Ireland’s Tom McKibbin has announced his intention to return to the DP World Tour for the 2027 season.
The departures follow a period of significant turmoil for the league.
In April, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund withdrew its backing after pouring more than $5bn (£3.8bn) into the project.
This led to the organization filing for bankruptcy protection in the United States last month. While the league has secured $300m (£224m) in potential financing from BC Partners Credit to attempt a relaunch under the banner of ‘LIV 2.0,’ player commitment has been sparse, with only a small group currently attached to the 2027 schedule. 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’.
Poulter, 50, who was part of the original 2022 LIV launch, explained that he reached his decision after extensive family consultations. On social media, he stated: “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 emphasized a desire to focus on senior golf, reduce international travel, and assist his sons, Luke and Joshua, in their own professional careers, while also developing his YouTube channel. It was a tough decision and one I thought about and discussed at length with my family and team, needless to say. A big thank you to everyone for their continued support.
Tyrrell Hatton, 35, who joined the tour in 2024, issued a brief message on Instagram confirming his exit. “Wanted to confirm I will not be part of a LIV 2.0,” he wrote, adding that he is focused on the next chapter of his career. Both Hatton and Poulter bring significant pedigree to the departures, having represented Europe in the Ryder Cup four and seven times, respectively. Hatton, 35, made a brief statement his Instagram account which confirmed his decision to leave the event.
For the 23-year-old McKibbin, who joined the league in January 2025, the move is a return to his roots on the DP World Tour. In an Instagram post, he noted that while joining LIV was the correct career choice at the time, he is now prioritizing other goals. “I’ve taken time to think about what’s best for me and I am confident this is the right decision to help me achieve my goals,” he stated, expressing gratitude for his time with the breakaway tour.
