Victor Perez Jumping To LIV Golf

During the few months between seasons, LIV Golf puts out calls for recruits.  Earlier in this recruiting season, there were rumors floating around that LIV was looking to sign up three recent PGA winners.  Speculation began about who was being recruited.  One suggestion was even Aldrich Potgieter, who just had an incredible rookie year.  That was quickly dismissed, but one player has been confirmed to be signed onto the Saudi-backed league.  That player is Victor Perez.

Victor Perez On The PGA

Although he has been playing on the Tour since 2019, he wasn’t a member until 2023.  He was on the DP World Tour and saw some victories on the circuit.  He didn’t make the PGA a priority until he became a member, all while remaining a DP member. Perez doesn’t have any PGA wins under his belt, but he does have a few international wins, and he also played in the 2024 Olympics.  This does complicate his relations with the rumors from earlier.  In fact, he was actually at risk of losing his Tour Card ahead of the recruitment announcement.  During the FedEx Cup, he found himself in 109th, for the fall circuit 108th, and sits at the OWGR 120th position.  

LIV Golf Switch

“Joining Cleeks Golf Club for the 2026 season feels like joining golf’s next great chapter, as this club continues to push boundaries, perform at the highest level, and bring fresh energy and vision to the game,” Perez said.  “The sport’s growth has been incredible, and LIV Golf’s innovation and energy are driving it forward. I’m excited to be part of that momentum and can’t wait to get started in Riyadh.”

Incidentally, Perez will be replacing Henrik Stenson, as he was relegated earlier this year.  Stenson, meanwhile, will be making his return to the DP World Tour.  However, he will need to settle some fines and penalties for his participation in LIV events without permission.

Friends of Perez on the PGA Tour are wishing him the best of luck in this switch.  Matthieu Pavon says that he will miss playing with Perez but understands that he made his decision.

Victor Perez After The PGA

Given that Perez is joining LIV, it means that he will be subject to the penalties associated with it.  Fines, suspensions, and other penalties will be applied.  However, he doesn’t seem too bothered by it.  He sees this as the next step in his career.  Perez was already on the verge of losing his Tour Card, so he may not be looking back soon.  This also means that he won’t be earning any OWGR points unless LIV can convince the organization.  As to how this will affect Perez, only time will tell if it goes well for him.