Ex-LIV Golfer Secures Historic PGA Tour Card
DUBAI — Laurie Canter has made history as the first former LIV golfer to secure full PGA Tour status. This milestone comes after a remarkable journey in professional golf that began with his debut at the Players Championship in March.
Journey from LIV Golf to PGA Tour
Canter’s path to the PGA Tour is noteworthy. It started on June 9, 2022, when he became a founding member of Cleeks GC in LIV Golf. Shortly after that, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan announced suspensions for all golfers participating in LIV events. This decision rendered LIV tournaments unauthorized for PGA Tour eligibility, forcing Canter and others to wait for a year before attempting to qualify.
Challenges Faced
- In 2022, Canter played a full season in LIV.
- In 2023, he was temporarily replaced by Anthony Kim after two early events.
- Despite earning $5.6 million over 20 LIV events, Canter found his options limited.
Seeking financial security, Canter returned to the DP World Tour. There, he showcased exceptional skill, winning significant competitions. His victories included the European Open in June 2024 and the Bahrain Championship in March 2025.
Achievements and PGA Tour Card
Canter’s successful performances garnered enough world ranking points, allowing him to qualify for the Players Championship. Although he missed the cut, his appearance earned him the special Tiffany cufflinks from Monahan, marking a significant moment in his career.
Road to the 2026 PGA Tour
This year has been a mixture of successes for Canter. He reached the DP World Tour Championship and secured one of the ten coveted PGA Tour cards for the 2026 season. Canter remarked on his unique journey, stating, “It hasn’t been orthodox or by design – it’s just how it worked for me with the opportunities that were in front of me.”
Laurie Canter’s story reflects resilience and determination. His transition from LIV Golf to the PGA Tour sets a notable precedent for the future of professional golf.
