Hatton and Poulter confirm LIV exits as relaunch awaits player commitments

Tyrrell Hatton and Ian Poulter announced on Friday, October 23, that they will not take part in LIV Golf's proposed relaunch, adding two prominent English players to the circuit's growing departure list. Sportsnet reported that both confirmed their decisions as the league works through bankruptcy proceedings and seeks enough player commitments to support a new version of the competition.

Watch the highlights:

Hatton did not give a reason for leaving in his brief social-media announcement, according to Sportsnet. He thanked supporters and expressed enthusiasm about the next stage of his career. Sky Sports reported that his Instagram message also referred to seeing fans in Abu Dhabi, but the statement did not set out a broader playing schedule or explain his decision.

Poulter gave a more detailed account of his plans. According to Sky Sports, he said he wanted more time with his family, less international travel and opportunities to play senior golf. He had discussed the choice with his family and team before deciding against continuing. Poulter has been with LIV since its first event in London in 2022 and co-captained Majesticks GC.

His plans also include developing The Postman YouTube channel and supporting his sons' golf. Sky Sports reported that Poulter wants to help Luke pursue his professional career and spend more time assisting Joshua's development as a teenage golfer. Those ambitions accompanied his intention to compete in some senior events, rather than an announcement that he was retiring from competitive golf.

Sportsnet also reported that Tom McKibbin announced his departure on Friday and intends to play a full European tour schedule next season. Jon Rahm and Louis Oosthuizen are among other players who have already decided against returning. Bryson DeChambeau, Cameron Smith and Dustin Johnson had not publicly committed at the time of Sportsnet's report; their silence does not establish a decision either way.

BC Partners Credit has pledged $300 million towards LIV's proposed next phase, Sportsnet reported, with sufficient player participation a condition of the restructuring arrangement. The current player deadline is October 25. Sky Sports reported that the investor can extend or waive it, so that date does not by itself settle whether the relaunched league will proceed.