Laurie Canter Returns to LIV Golf, Forfeiting PGA Tour Card Prospect
Despite earning a coveted PGA Tour card through the DP World Tour, golfer Laurie Canter has opted to rejoin Saudi-backed LIV Golf, a decision announced Monday. he will play for the Majestiks team starting in the 2026 season, relinquishing his PGA Tour opportunity which now goes to Daniel Brown.
Canter’s journey to this point has been unconventional. He initially joined LIV Golf in 2022 with limited status on the European tour, seeking consistent playing opportunities. He competed in seven events during the inaugural year, finishing 28th in the league standings.
The 36-year-old from England served as a reserve player in 2023, filling in for injured golfers in 11 LIV Golf events. He began 2024 with two appearances as a reserve before being replaced by Anthony Kim. This lead to a return to the European tour where he experienced a resurgence in form.
A victory at the European Open in Germany in 2024, followed by another win in Bahrain in early 2025, propelled Canter to No.50 in the world rankings. This achievement marked a meaningful milestone, making him the first former LIV Golf player to qualify for The Players Championship – golf’s premier tournament – adn also earning him a spot in the Masters.
“Joining Majestiks GC is an amazing opportunity to be part of a team that has helped shape LIV Golf from day one,” Canter stated. “The league’s growth has been remarkable and my experience in the league has led me to become a more complete player and a multiple winner on the DP World Tour.To return to the league with Majestiks GC is a huge honor, and they bring a standard of excellence, ambition, and identity that really resonates with me.”
Canter joins fellow Frenchman Victor Perez as a recent addition to LIV Golf.The Majestiks team was originally founded with Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter, Henrik Stenson, and Sam Horsfield. Stenson’s relegation after failing to finish in the top 48 created the opening for Canter.
Notably, Henrik Stenson, 49, has reportedly completed his suspension and paid his fines, paving the way for his return to the DP World Tour next year, according to multiple sources.
The situation highlights the ongoing dynamic between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and LIV Golf. Last year, Tom McKibbin also earned a PGA Tour card through the European tour but joined LIV Golf in january, preventing the card from being passed down to the next eligible player. However, in Canter’s case, his signing with LIV before the end of the year allows Daniel Brown to accept the card. This complex interplay of player movement continues to reshape the landscape of professional golf.
