Victor Perez Exits PGA Tour to Join LIV Golf's Cleeks Team

Post by : Mara Rahim

French golfer Victor Perez has made a significant career shift, officially departing from the PGA Tour to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf tour. This makes him the first golfer this year to transition from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf, an announcement that generated considerable conversation within the golfing community.

Perez will represent the Cleeks team in LIV Golf, which is under the leadership of captain Martin Kaymer, and includes notable players like Adrian Meronk from Poland and the seasoned Richard Bland, who is 52 years old. Perez expressed enthusiasm about this new direction, considering it a pivotal moment in his career.

Having built a solid reputation over the years, Perez previously maintained memberships on both the PGA Tour and the European Tour. In Europe, he secured three titles on the European Tour, showcasing his talent and consistency as a golfer.

In 2025, Perez mainly focused on PGA Tour events, with his only European Tour appearance being at the French Open. His top finish on the PGA Tour was a tied ninth at the RBC Canadian Open, reflecting his struggles to remain competitive throughout the season.

Currently sitting at No. 108 in the FedEx Cup rankings, Perez faced the prospect of losing his PGA Tour card, culminating in his withdrawal from the RSM Classic on Tuesday. Shortly thereafter, his move to LIV Golf was announced.

In his statement, Perez noted, "LIV Golf is golf's next great chapter," describing the Cleeks as a team that is innovating and challenging norms within the sport. He expressed excitement about competing at high levels and igniting new vigor in his game.

LIV Golf provides players with guaranteed contracts, a team-based competition format, and substantial prize money. This appealing structure has drawn the interest of many golfers who seek financial stability and an alternative to the traditional PGA Tour.

For Perez, this transition could also offer a valuable opportunity to regain his confidence after a difficult PGA Tour season.

He replaces Frederik Kjettrup on the Cleeks team, who was removed for not ranking within the top 48 points. In LIV Golf, players not achieving requisite standings risk relegation, making Perez's experience essential for team performance.

Perez's exit from the PGA Tour underscores the ongoing transformations within the sport, with LIV Golf's rise attracting golfers globally. As some remain loyal to traditional tours, others view LIV Golf as a new horizon for their careers.

As the 2026 season draws near, golf enthusiasts will be keenly observing Perez's performance in this new setting and its implications for both tours.