Rory McIlroy recently expressed his belief that the PGA Tour and LIV Golf have developed significant disparities that make any potential alliance unlikely. This comes in the wake of Patrick Reed’s recent victory at the Dubai Desert Classic, marking his twelfth win worldwide. Reed, who has not yet finalized his contract for the upcoming LIV Golf League season, indicated he remains a free agent but hopes to participate in the league’s first event scheduled for February 4 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Reed stated that while he is eagerly anticipating competing in LIV Golf, the contractual discussions are still ongoing, and no official deal has been completed. Despite speculation about his involvement, Reed confirmed, “Not that I know of… I plan on teeing it up there in Riyadh, and I’d be surprised if we’re not.”
In an encouraging sign for LIV Golf, the league announced that it re-signed two-time major champion Dustin Johnson to a multiyear deal and indicated Reed would be joining the 4Aces team alongside Johnson, Thomas Detry, and Thomas Pieters. Yet, Reed reiterated that the finalization of his contract is still pending.
With his impressive four-stroke victory over England’s Andy Sullivan at the Emirates Golf Club, Reed clinched his first title on the DP World Tour since 2020. This win is significant as it is likely to elevate him to 29th in the Official World Golf Ranking, which would secure him places in this season’s four major championships. Reed acknowledged the importance of this victory, stating, “It’s always nice to lock up the majors… But to do it earlier in the year like this, to be able to take the momentum going into the year, means a lot.”
At 35 years old, Reed is not actively discussing a return to the PGA Tour, where he has nine victories. However, he revealed that if he doesn’t finalize his contract with LIV Golf, he may focus on the DP World Tour with aspirations to earn a place back on the PGA Tour through the top 10 in points.
Meanwhile, former LIV Golf player Brooks Koepka has made a transition back to the PGA Tour under a new Returning Member Program, aimed at golfers who have been absent for at least two years and hold major titles. Other notable LIV golfers, including Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm, remain committed to the breakaway league despite being eligible to return under certain conditions.
As the PGA Tour prepares to close the window for LIV golfers to apply for reinstatement by February 2, Reed’s situation exemplifies the ongoing complexities and competitive dynamics in professional golf today.