Ian Poulter and Tyrrell Hatton confirm LIV Golf departures

Ian Poulter and Tyrrell Hatton confirmed on Friday that they will leave LIV Golf rather than take part in its proposed next version. BBC Sport reported that the English pair are the latest prominent departures from the circuit, following announcements by Jon Rahm and Louis Oosthuizen as LIV seeks to continue in 2027.

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Poulter, 50, explained in a social-media statement that he wants to spend more time with his family, cut back on overseas travel and play senior golf. The statement, reproduced by Golf Monthly, also outlined plans to develop his YouTube channel and support his sons: Luke as he pursues professional golf, and Joshua as he develops his game. Poulter said he had considered the decision with his family and team.

Hatton's announcement was shorter. In an Instagram message reported by Golf Channel, the 35-year-old confirmed that he would not join LIV 2.0 and looked ahead to seeing fans in Abu Dhabi. Golf Channel identified that reference as the DP World Tour's Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship, scheduled for November 5-8. His message did not provide a detailed explanation for leaving.

The two players arrived at LIV at different stages. Poulter was among its original recruits in 2022 and shared leadership of the Majesticks team with Lee Westwood. Hatton joined in 2024 and played for Rahm's Legion XIII. BBC Sport also reported that their teammate Tom McKibbin has decided against continuing with LIV and intends to play a full DP World Tour schedule in 2027.

Their exits come while the league works through a financial restructuring. Sky Sports reported that LIV filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September after Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund ended its funding earlier in the season. BC Partners Credit has become involved in financing the proposed relaunch, but the composition of the player field remains unsettled.

An initial player deadline is set for October 25. According to Sky Sports, BC Partners Credit can extend or waive it, while LIV attorney Robert Fitzgerald said a decision on continuing or ceasing operations should be known by the end of the month. The relaunch therefore remains a proposal, not a confirmed return with a settled roster.