Patrick Reed explains sudden LIV Golf exit to pursue PGA Tour return

Patrick Reed has revealed his desire to experience traditional tournament golf and spend more time with his family were the primary reasons behind his sudden departure from the LIV Golf Tour in January.

The 2018 Masters champion originally resigned from the PGA Tour in June 2022 to join the Saudi-backed breakaway league.

However, the 35-year-old made a surprising turnaround earlier this year when he announced his intention to regain his American main tour card.

Chasing the traditional thrill

Speaking ahead of the first major of the season at Augusta National, the American admitted the decision to leave the 54-hole circuit was made very quickly.

He explained that competing on the DP World Tour in Dubai reminded him of the adrenaline associated with standard tournament formats.

I really just kind of was sitting back and realizing that I wanted to get back and not only join – have an opportunity back on the PGA Tour, but get back to the traditional way of golf and playing.

The former Ryder Cup star highlighted the thrill of battling rivals on a standard, staggered leaderboard rather than LIV’s controversial shotgun start format.

For me, I wanted that back, I wanted that adrenaline back, and those feelings, especially with the way I played those last three weeks.

Family priorities and future eligibility

A grueling international schedule with the breakaway circuit also heavily impacted his home life.

The Texan noted that he urgently wanted to watch his 11-year-old daughter and eight-year-old son grow up.

To be honest with you, it was one of those decisions that I felt like was the best, not just for the golf game, but also for my family to spend more time with them.

Since stepping away from the LIV Tour, he has become a renewed force in Europe.

Masters contender in formidable form

The former rebel has secured two victories and three runner-up finishes on the DP World Tour since the start of the year.

Those impressive results have guaranteed him one of the 10 PGA Tour cards handed out to top finishers in the Race to Dubai standings.

Because of his past champion status, he is eligible to return for invitational events from late August and on a full-time basis in 2027.

That blistering recent form makes the former Augusta winner a genuine contender to secure a second Green Jacket this week.