Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
French golfer Victor Perez has made a pivotal career move by leaving the PGA Tour to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf league. Announced on Tuesday, he becomes the first player this year to make this transition, sparking conversations within the golfing community.
Perez will be competing for the Cleeks team, which is under the leadership of Martin Kaymer. The team already boasts notable players like Adrian Meronk and the seasoned Richard Bland. Expressing enthusiasm for this new chapter, Perez believes it's a significant turn in his career.
An established figure in the golf world, Perez has previously held dual membership on the PGA and European Tours. He has three European Tour titles to his name, affirming his reputation as a talented and reliable golfer.
In 2025, Perez predominantly participated in PGA Tour events, with his only European outing being the French Open. His strongest finish on the PGA Tour this year was a tie for ninth at the RBC Canadian Open, although he faced difficulties maintaining competitiveness throughout the season.
Currently rated No. 108 in the FedEx Cup standings, Perez faced the risk of losing his PGA Tour card, which led to his recent withdrawal from the RSM Classic. Soon after, it was revealed that he would be joining LIV Golf.
In his remarks, Perez referred to LIV Golf as "golf’s next great chapter," expressing excitement about being part of a team that challenges norms and introduces innovative concepts to the sport, aiming to inject new vitality into his game.
LIV Golf offers players assured contracts, team competition, and significant prize money, drawing increasing attention from golfers seeking financial stability and a fresh format compared to the PGA Tour.
For Perez, this transition could be key to restoring his confidence after a tough season on the PGA Tour.
He will replace Frederik Kjettrup on the Cleeks team, who was dropped from LIV Golf after not finishing in the top 48 on the league’s points list. In LIV Golf, failure to secure required rankings can lead to relegation, costing players their positions.
Joining the Cleeks presents Perez with a crucial role, and his experiences from both tours are likely to bolster the team's performance.
Perez's departure from the PGA Tour highlights the ongoing transformation in the sport. LIV Golf continues to attract global talent, as some players embrace this new opportunity while others remain dedicated to traditional tours.
As the 2026 season draws near, golf enthusiasts will closely monitor Perez's performance in this new setting and the ripple effects of his decision on both Tours.
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