Former Open champion Louis Oosthuizen has announced his departure from LIV Golf, ending a four-year association with the Saudi-backed circuit as he prepares to return to the DP World Tour in 2027.
The 44-year-old South African described the move as one of the most difficult decisions of his professional career, citing concerns over his playing schedule and a desire to remain competitive at the highest level.
His departure comes amid mounting uncertainty surrounding LIV Golf, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States in September after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund withdrew its multibillion-dollar financial support.
Oosthuizen, who joined LIV Golf in 2022 and captained Southern Guards GC, said he remained a strong advocate of team golf despite deciding to leave the breakaway league.
In a statement shared on social media, the former world number four reflected positively on his time with LIV Golf, describing his decision to join the circuit as one of the best of his career.
However, he acknowledged that the demands of LIV Golf’s proposed new schedule had raised concerns about his ability to maintain his competitive standards.
The South African, who won the 2010 Open Championship at St Andrews, believes greater control over his tournament commitments will allow him to extend his career and compete effectively for several more seasons.
Oosthuizen has recorded 11 victories on the DP World Tour and has finished runner-up at least once in each of the other three major championships.
His decision adds to a growing list of prominent players leaving LIV Golf, including Sergio Garcia, Thomas Pieters, Abraham Ancer, David Puig and Adrian Meronk.
Two-time major champion Jon Rahm also recently reached an agreement to leave the circuit, reportedly surrendering £75 million owed to him as part of the separation.
Meanwhile, several former LIV Golf players have sought opportunities to return to established professional tours. Five-time major winner Brooks Koepka has rejoined the PGA Tour following changes to its regulations in December, although his reinstatement remains subject to certain sanctions.
The DP World Tour has also taken a firm position on players seeking to maintain memberships across competing circuits.
Earlier this month, DP World Tour chief executive Guy Kinnings indicated that golfers continuing to compete on LIV Golf would not be eligible for membership on the European circuit next season.
Despite its financial difficulties, LIV Golf is attempting to secure its future. The organisation has reportedly arranged access to a potential $300 million financing package from BC Partners Credit as it works towards staging a 2027 season.
For Oosthuizen, however, the immediate priority is a return to a more familiar competitive environment, where he hopes to make the most of the remaining years of his professional career.
His departure represents another significant setback for LIV Golf as the circuit faces increasing financial pressure and the loss of several established international players.
