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Laurie Canter Breaks Silence on LIV Return: “I Was Okay With the Animosity”

Nedbank Golf Challenge 2025 Laurie Canter ENGon the 2nd fairway during the first round of the Nedbank Golf Challenge 2025 held at Gary Player Country Club in Sun City, South Africa. 04/12/2025. Picture Thos Caffrey / Golffile.ie All photo usage must carry mandatory copyright credit Golffile Thos Caffrey Copyright: xThosxCaffreyx *EDI*

Laurie Canter returned to LIV Golf after a couple of years. This is what he had to say about the decision.

“I don’t know many people who deliberately look for and like the animosity." He knew exactly what he was stepping into.

Canter had earned a PGA Tour card through the DP World Tour pathway, one of the clearest routes for European players to access the American circuit. Instead, he chose to go back to LIV.

“I’m definitely someone who’s comfortable with decisions I make,” he told Today’s Golfer. The change of location was not a coincidence. Dubai has become a practical base for several LIV players because of travel access and scheduling convenience.

Canter makes it clear this wasn’t a solo call. “I’ve got a pool of people who I respect, and they listen to your opinion and tell you what they think,” an ex-LIV Golf player said. “If you can’t live your life and please everyone and make everyone happy.” 

He further added, “I think you’ve got to do what you think’s right for your career and the people around you.”

LIV's makeup is different, featuring only a few playing fields, guaranteed contracts, and a smaller number of tournaments. The PGA Tour path gives you status and tradition, but it also comes with a tough, week-by-week grind.

Canter is not acting as if the criticism is not there. He is basically saying that he thought it through and took it in his stride.

Canter’s 2026 Journey Begins at LIV Adelaide

Laurie Canter has already secured a major opportunity this season by qualifying for The Open Championship, thus securing a spot at one of golf's biggest events later this year. That start adds a meaningful start to his 2026 campaign that is beyond the LIV schedule.

Since his return to the league, Canter has been reunited with Majesticks GC, alongside co-captains Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter, with Sam Horsfield being the fourth member of the team. His first outing came at LIV Golf Adelaide, where he finished at 53.

The finish was not that great, but the season has just started. Between carrying out their roles at Majesticks GC and the upcoming major championship appearance, the focus now turns to getting better results as the LIV schedule moves on.

What are your thoughts about Laurie Canter's return and his 2026 journey? Do tell in comments.

And keep reading Daily Club Golf!

Written by

Dolly Bhamrick

Edited by

Kalp Thaker