Ian Poulter has yet to reach a definitive decision about whether he will remain on the LIV Golf roster for the upcoming season, but he expressed a wish that the organization stays operational next year despite lingering doubts about its financial backing. Poulter, together with his Majesticks Golf Club teammate Lee Westwood, was among the earliest high‑profile players to sign up for the breakaway circuit back in 2022.
Their move helped lend credibility to the fledgling league and signaled a shift in the professional golf landscape. Following the conclusion of LIV Golf's 2026 campaign in Indianapolis over the weekend, Poulter turned to Instagram to share his thoughts.
He admitted that he is still on the fence about returning for another year, while also emphasizing his pride in what the tour has accomplished so far. "This final phase has been tough and none of us knows exactly what comes next," the five‑time Ryder Cup veteran wrote.
"My thoughts are especially with the businesses and suppliers still owed money. Some are small businesses and I sincerely hope those situations are dealt with properly and quickly." He went on to warn that the disappearance of a second incarnation of LIV would be a disappointment for players eager for a robust global stage, as well as for the fans and host nations that have embraced the new format. "It would be a real shame if LIV 2.0 doesn't happen.
There are players who would love a strong global platform to play on and countries and fans who want us back," Poulter added. "Some players will stay, some may go. As for me, I may stay or take some time off.
I genuinely haven't decided yet." Addressing the criticism he has faced for joining the league, Poulter said he has never tried to hide the financial aspect of his choice. "I know some people didn't agree with my decision to join LIV.
I've never hidden from the financial side," he posted. He then highlighted that appearance fees are a routine part of a professional golfer's career, noting that LIV presented a significant opportunity later in his playing days, which he chose to seize. "Golfers have received appearance fees around the world throughout my career and still do today. LIV gave me a significant opportunity late in my career and I took it.
People make career decisions every day based on opportunity, family and financial security. Professional sport is no different," Poulter explained. After settling the fines imposed for participating in the rebel league, both Poulter and Westwood are slated to re‑appear on the DP World Tour in October, beginning with the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.
Their return underscores the fluid nature of player affiliations as the LIV saga unfolds. Speculation about the future of LIV Golf has intensified. Earlier this month, CEO Scott O'Neil announced that the league had secured a new, as‑yet‑unnamed lead investor after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) confirmed it would cease funding at the end of the 2026 season.
The loss of PIF money has forced LIV’s leadership to hunt for fresh capital. A term sheet for a commercial arrangement with the new investor has reportedly been signed, and O'Neil expressed optimism that a definitive deal could be sealed in September.
Nevertheless, uncertainty remains, especially after the league’s Team Championship scheduled for Michigan this weekend was abruptly cancelled, sending further warning signals to players, sponsors, and fans. Amid the turmoil, fellow LIV competitor Bryson DeChambeau hinted that "something fun was coming" and that there is "a lot of potential" for the league to survive into the next year, suggesting that the organization may still have viable pathways forward.
Poulter’s personal record on the LIV circuit is modest: despite five seasons with the league, he has yet to capture an individual or team title. He has, however, amassed three PGA Tour victories and twelve DP World Tour wins over his career, underscoring his status as a seasoned competitor.
Reflecting on his tenure, Poulter acknowledged the challenges inherent in building a new venture that disrupts the established order. "It hasn't always been easy, and it was never going to be," he said.
"Building something new and challenging the status quo was always going to bring challenges and criticism. I sincerely thank everyone who supported me, our team and LIV throughout the journey." He praised the league’s ability to bring golf to new audiences, citing events that attracted crowds exceeding 100,000 spectators. "Playing in front of those massive crowds was truly special.
To everyone who came out and supported us – thank you. You were class," Poulter said. Poulter also took a moment to thank his close associates, naming Lee Westwood, Henrik Stenson, Sam Horsfield and Laurie Canter, along with the broader staff of LIV and Majesticks Golf Club.
He highlighted a project close to his heart: Littlesticks, an initiative that integrates golf into the physical education curricula of more than 200 schools, providing clubs to over 40,000 children. He described this effort as a lasting legacy that he and his team can be proud of.
As the debate over LIV Golf’s viability continues, the sport’s ecosystem watches closely. Whether Poulter ultimately decides to re‑join the league, take a hiatus, or focus exclusively on the DP World Tour will be a telling indicator of how players weigh financial incentives against the stability and reputation of emerging tours. The outcome will also shape the broader conversation about the future of professional golf, the role of alternative leagues, and the importance of safeguarding the interests of smaller businesses and suppliers that have become intertwined with the sport’s evolving landscape.