Patrick Reed is making a calculated move to rejoin the PGA Tour.

The 2018 Masters Tournament winner is aiming to rebuild his position in professional golf after a lucrative but limited run on the Saudi-backed circuit. This move brings renewed focus on his legacy and future eligibility.

As Reed played on the LIV circuit for four years, he earned about $40.7 million, which significantly exceeds his total earnings from his 12-year PGA Tour career, approximately $35.1 million.

According to Spotrac, Reed earned about $5.8 million in the 2015–16 season and around $5.3 million in the 2019–20 season, but even his best earnings could not match those earned while playing for LIV.

While his wealth increased sharply on the breakaway circuit, his presence in world-ranking events declined. He remains ineligible to return to the PGA Tour until August 2026 due to regulations related to participation in non-sanctioned events.

Elite Roadmap for a Major Champion's Return

Reed’s possible return has drawn comparisons to Brooks Koepka, who rejoined the PGA Tour through a process that reportedly involved financial penalties to regain eligibility.

This program applies to players who meet certain eligibility criteria, including recent major winners, making Reed a strong candidate to return. Similar to Brooks Koepka, he would likely need to meet financial requirements and accept restrictions on access to certain events.

At present, Reed is performing well at the 2026 Masters, where he is tied for second place at 6-under par heading into the weekend.

Reed will become eligible to restore his PGA Tour membership next year, provided he meets the necessary requirements and avoids participating in non-sanctioned events.

Being a lifetime member of the DP World Tour, Reed has another chance to secure full PGA Tour eligibility in 2027 if he finishes in the top 10 positions in the Race to Dubai rankings.

Reed's departure from LIV marks a significant moment in the ongoing divide in professional golf. A successful return would add another complex chapter to his career.

Read more at Daily Club Golf!

Written by

Abhishek Sharma

Edited by

Pulkit Prabhav