Patrick Reed’s LIV Golf Exit Sparks Reactions from Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton
02/03/2026 by Matthias Gräf
Patrick Reed’s decision to leave the LIV Golf League has sent ripples through the professional golf community. The move, arguably more surprising than Brooks Koepka’s earlier departure, has sparked discussions among top players as the 2026 LIV Golf season approaches in Riyadh.
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Patrick Reed’s decision to leave the LIV Golf League has sent ripples through the professional golf community. The move, arguably more surprising than Brooks Koepka’s earlier departure, has sparked discussions among top players as the 2026 LIV Golf season approaches in Riyadh.
Jon Rahm, one of the leading figures on the PGA Tour, weighed in on Reed’s exit. Rahm emphasized that each player must make decisions based on what they believe is best for their career and personal goals. His measured comments reflect the complex dynamics currently shaping professional golf, especially with the ongoing competition between traditional tours and the LIV Golf League.
Impact on LIV Golf and the 2026 Season
Reed’s departure comes just ahead of the first event of the 2026 LIV Golf League, which will take place in Riyadh. The league, known for attracting high-profile players with lucrative contracts, faces ongoing challenges as it tries to establish itself alongside established tours like the PGA Tour and the DP World Tour. Reed’s exit may influence other players’ decisions and the league’s overall stability.
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Perspectives from Tyrrell Hatton
English golfer Tyrrell Hatton also shared his thoughts on the situation. Hatton acknowledged the shock value of Reed’s decision but stressed the importance of respecting each player’s choice. His comments highlight the ongoing uncertainty and shifting allegiances within professional golf.
Broader Context in Professional Golf
The professional golf landscape is currently marked by significant changes, with players navigating between traditional tours and emerging leagues. The LIV Golf League’s aggressive recruitment and high-profile signings have disrupted the status quo, prompting reactions from players, sponsors, and fans alike.
As the 2026 season unfolds, all eyes will be on how these developments affect tournament fields, player performances, and the future of professional golf globally.
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