Bryson DeChambeau Voices Displeasure Over LIV Golf's Tournament Format Shift
Superstar golfer Bryson DeChambeau has publicly expressed his dissatisfaction with a significant rule change announced by LIV Golf for the upcoming 2026 season. The Saudi-backed breakaway tour, which has operated with three-round, 54-hole tournaments since its inception, will transition to the more traditional four-round, 72-hole format. This move has caught DeChambeau off guard and prompted him to question his long-term commitment to the circuit.
DeChambeau's Contractual Concerns and Surprise Announcement
In a recent interview with Today's Golfer, DeChambeau revealed that the format alteration was not part of the original agreement when he joined LIV Golf in 2022. "It's definitely changed away from what we had initially been told it was going to be," DeChambeau stated. He emphasized that the change has led to internal discussions among players, with many wondering about the rationale behind the shift.
DeChambeau, who is in the final year of a lucrative contract with LIV Golf, affirmed his commitment to play out the season but indicated uncertainty beyond that. "I've got a contract for this year and we'll go through it there and see what happens after that," he said. The two-time U.S. Open champion added, "Is it what we ultimately signed up for? No. So I think we're supposed to be different, so I'm a little indifferent to it right now."
The Allure of LIV Golf and Changing Landscape
When DeChambeau made the high-profile jump to LIV Golf in 2022, he was attracted by the promise of substantial financial rewards and a reduced workload compared to the PGA Tour. The original 54-hole format was a key selling point, offering players more flexibility and less physical strain. The shift to 72-hole tournaments represents a fundamental change in the tour's identity and could impact player retention.
DeChambeau's comments come at a time when other notable LIV Golf stars are exploring their options. Brooks Koepka recently became the first major LIV defector to return to the PGA Tour through a new Returning Members Program, albeit with significant financial penalties. Patrick Reed has also left LIV Golf, opting to compete on the DP World Tour before a potential PGA Tour return in 2027.
Alternative Pathways and Future Speculation
DeChambeau qualified for the PGA Tour's return program but chose not to opt in before the recent deadline. This decision leaves him with several potential paths forward as his LIV Golf contract approaches expiration. One unconventional option he has previously mentioned is becoming a full-time content creator on platforms like YouTube, while still competing in major championships.
"Becoming a full-time YouTuber is an incredibly viable option," DeChambeau remarked last month, suggesting he might bypass both traditional tours in favor of building his personal brand through digital media. This potential pivot reflects the evolving nature of professional golf and the increasing importance of alternative revenue streams for top athletes.
Implications for LIV Golf's Future Direction
The format change to 72-hole tournaments signals LIV Golf's possible attempt to align more closely with traditional golf structures, potentially as part of broader negotiations or integration efforts with established tours. However, as DeChambeau's reaction demonstrates, this shift may alienate players who were specifically attracted to LIV's original, less demanding format.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on how LIV Golf manages this transition and whether other players join DeChambeau in expressing reservations about the new tournament structure. The coming months will likely determine whether DeChambeau remains with LIV Golf, returns to the PGA Tour, or charts an entirely new course in his professional career.
