Despite talks between the PIF and the PGA Tour taking place the week prior to the US Open, the golfing world is still no closer to news of an agreement emerging.
And after two successful LIV Golf events in Nashville and Houston, the breakaway tour is undoubtedly on the rise, largely thanks to Bryson DeChambeau’s recent boom in popularity after his victory at Pinehurst No.2.
The big-hitting American has massively changed public opinion of himself in recent months after initially breaking through in quite a divisive manner during the infancy of his career.
Now, the PGA Tour will be looking at DeChambeau’s success and potentially wishing the 30-year-old was still present on golf’s traditional circuit.
Here, The Golfing Gazette has taken a look at five LIV players the PGA Tour would surely love to have back.
Cameron Smith
The ever-popular Aussie has proven a hit on LIV this season, particularly during the Adelaide event.
Smith was arguably the most controversial switch to LIV Golf after his Open Championship win at St Andrews in 2022.
After claiming his first major, the 30-year-old was immediately questioned about his imminent move to LIV, something he was less than impressed with.
However, considering his worldwide popularity and sheer world-class ability on the course, the PGA Tour would love to have Smith back on board.
David Puig
Spaniard David Puig was one of the later entrants to the PGA Championship at Valhalla after receiving an invite.
The 22-year-old’s season has been up and down. Last week, he finished 51st in Nashville; however, in Houston, he placed third.
As one of the brightest prospects in the game, the PGA Tour would surely be eager to bring the exciting Spaniard back on board.
Brooks Koepka
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A fairly obvious choice and one of the biggest names in the game.
Brooks Koepka is the most successful player in LIV Golf history, although it’s hard to tell if the American is really enjoying his time on the breakaway tour.
Given his global presence and five-time major wins, the 34-year-old would undoubtedly be top of the PGA Tour’s LIV Golf wishlist.
Tyrrell Hatton
Characters are also required, and Tyrrell Hatton would tick a lot of boxes. The Englishman landed his first LIV Golf win in Nashville and also has the entertainment factor on his side.
When at his best, the 32-year-old is one of the most talked about players, and the PGA Tour would surely jump at the chance to have him back on board if specific circumstances arise.
But, for now, the outspoken Englishman appears content with his place on the breakaway tour after his switch last year.
Joaquin Niemann
If given a chance, the PGA Tour would try to land LIV Golf individual championship leader Joaquin Niemann back on the side.
The Chilean has been the man to beat this season and has produced some of the best golf seen anywhere in 2024.
Had Niemann been playing regularly alongside the likes of Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele, he would’ve been competing regularly.
Furthermore, with the Chilean only 25, it feels like there’s a lot more to come. It’s one that certainly got away for Jay Monahan and Co.
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