As LIV Golf hangs in the balance, DP World Tour and Ryder Cup star Ian Poulter is the latest player to reveal his intentions…
Ian Poulter is the latest team captain to quit LIV Golf.
The Englishman, who co-captained Majesticks GC with compatriot Lee Westwood, follows hot on the heels of Louis Oosthuizen, who revealed on Wednesday that he will be returning to the DP World Tour.
In a statement on social media titled “life update”, Poulter wrote: “Hi all – I wanted everyone to hear it direct from me that I have decided to not move forward with being part of LIV 2.0.
“Needless to say, it was a tough decision and one I thought about and discussed at length with my family and team.
“Ultimately, the opportunity to spend more time at home with my family, reduce international travel, focus on senior golf and have the opportunity to pursue other interests was something that I felt was right for me at this stage of my life and career.
“Clearly, LIV Golf has divided opinion, but to be part of the founding group that took world class golf around the globe, showcased our great game to a new audience, built a team brand in Majesticks GC, helped innovate tournament formats and establish a leading community impact program in Little Sticks, is something I will be forever proud of. And that’s just scratching the surface of what we achieved together.
“Change is never easy and it’s fair to say professional golf has experienced plenty of it over the last few years. But I’ve always believed that change can create opportunity and ultimately lead to positive outcomes. There will undoubtedly be more changes ahead, but I am confident the game will continue to grow, evolve, and deliver the very best for golf fans around the world.
“I’m immensely grateful to everyone who has been part of my journey with LIV Golf, from my teammates and colleagues, league staff, partners and of course the fans who supported us along the way – thank you! We’ve shared some incredible experiences, created great memories, and built friendships that will last well beyond the golf course. Whatever happens next, I wish you nothing but the very best for the future.”
As for what’s next, the 50-year-old added: “I’m genuinely excited about this next chapter. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family, continuing to develop The Postman YouTube channel, sharing more of my life, golf, experiences and competing in some senior events.
“Something I am also particularly looking forward to is being able to spend more time helping [eldest son] Luke as he pursues his career in professional golf, and [youngest son] Joshua as he looks to develop as a golfer in his teenage years. Having spent so many years traveling the world chasing my own golfing dreams, the opportunity to now spend more time supporting my boys as they chase theirs is something that means a great deal to me
“After all these years, golf has given me so much, and I’m excited about what lies ahead, both on and off the course. Thanks again to everyone who has been part of the journey so far! We certainly aren’t done yet!”
As it stands, just five players have publicly stated they are prepared to move on with LIV Golf 2.0.