In a surprising twist in the world of professional golf, the narrative continues to evolve in unexpected ways, and this latest development is no exception. But here’s where it gets controversial: just when you thought the rivalry between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour might be settling into a calmer period, news emerges that adds fuel to the fire.
Less than a week after Laurie Canter made history by becoming the first former LIV Golf player to secure a PGA Tour card, recent reports indicate he is now heading back to LIV Golf. According to the Sports Business Journal, the 36-year-old English golfer appears destined to rejoin the Saudi-backed LIV league in 2026.
Canter’s journey is nothing short of intriguing. He initially played on LIV during its inaugural three seasons from 2022 to 2024. Since then, he’s primarily competed on the DP World Tour, where he performed notably in 2025, finishing inside the top 10 of the season-long standings. This achievement automatically grants players PGA Tour eligibility for the following year, provided they meet certain criteria, which Canter did.
This past March, Canter made headlines by becoming the first former LIV player to participate in a non-co-sanctioned PGA Tour event— the prestigious Players Championship— by qualifying due to his world ranking position, breaking a barrier that had limited LIV players’ participation in non-Saudi tournaments. This participation was possible because it had been over a year since his last appearance on LIV, making him eligible to compete.
In an interview with the Golf Channel, Canter expressed his admiration for the PGA Tour, emphasizing how highly regarded these signature events are in the golfing world. He explained, “Anyone who plays golf would want to be a PGA Tour member. You look at this week, the event last week I watched— these signature tournaments and majors—the chance to play at those venues with top competitors and substantial prize money is truly incredible.” This sentiment underscores why many players view PGA Tour participation as the pinnacle of a professional golfer’s career.
His future team association within LIV remains uncertain. Reports suggest that players like Henrik Stenson, Andy Ogletree, and Mito Pereira were cut from LIV after last season, and it’s unclear where Canter will officially fit in when he returns.
Adding to the intrigue, LIV recently signed Victor Perez, a 33-year-old former PGA Tour member with notable success on the DP World Tour, including three wins. Perez, ranked 122nd worldwide and 108th in the FedEx Cup standings, will join LIV’s team known as the Cleeks.
Currently, Laurie Canter, a winner on the DP World Tour twice, holds the World Ranking at No. 62— a position that places him among the more competitive players on the global stage.
More updates and insights on this evolving story can be found on Sports Illustrated, as the landscape of professional golf continues to shift amid ongoing debates about player loyalties, league rivalries, and the future of the sport itself.