Jon Rahm has broken his silence on Patrick Reed’s decision to leave LIV Golf. 

Rahm, the league’s two-time defending individual champion, who was eligible to return to the PGA Tour through the Returning Members Program that allowed Brooks Koepka to rejoin, has chosen to remain on LIV Golf.

After Koepka’s departure, Patrick Reed also officially left LIV Golf on January 28, as he works toward a return to the PGA Tour. 

Reed confirmed that he did not renew his contract after discussions on an extension did not result in an agreement.

During a press conference at LIV Golf Riyadh on February 2, via ASAP Sports, Rahm was asked about Patrick Reed’s decision to leave LIV Golf and his expected return to the PGA TOUR.

“I think each one is going to do whatever he thinks is best for them. At this point, I just wish him nothing but the best of luck. Hopefully, it all goes well.”

Rahm expanded on the idea by saying, “We’re free to choose where we want to play golf. At least that’s how it should be. And he’s made his choice, obviously. Nothing really against him. He’s been playing fantastic golf, and if he wants to go back, he should have the chance to do so.”

In contrast, Patrick Reed was out of contract, and Koepka had only one year remaining on his deal. Rahm joined later and would likely be required to give up a significant portion of his contract to leave at this stage.

Reed’s move raises the question of what prompted the decision.

Why Patrick Reed Is Working His Way Back to the PGA Tour

The 2018 Masters Tournament champion’s path back to the PGA Tour follows a multi-stage process. Patrick Reed is subject to a 12-month suspension tied to participation in unauthorized events. 

Beginning August 25, 2026, Reed becomes eligible to compete in PGA Tour-sanctioned tournaments as a non-member. 

Later in the 2026 season, he plans to enter FedExCup Fall events through sponsor exemptions or open qualifying. In the meantime, Reed is competing full-time on the DP World Tour during the 2026 season.

A top-10 finish in the Race to Dubai standings could secure him a higher-priority PGA Tour card for 2027 than his past champion status.

Following his departure from LIV, Reed won the Hero Dubai Desert Classic in January, finished tied for second at the Bahrain Championship after a playoff loss, and is scheduled to start at the Qatar Masters in early February.

Reed spoke after his first round at the Bahrain Championship, saying, “Really excited to get back to the PGA Tour and start playing close to home.”

What do you make of Patrick Reed’s decision, smart move or risky shift?

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Written by

Aditi Singh

Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu