Lucas Herbert opts out of LIV Golf 2.0 after two-win season, eyes DP World Tour

A major exit at a fragile moment for LIV Australian golfer Lucas Herbert plans to leave LIV Golf and pursue a DP World Tour schedule in 2027. On October 23, golf reporter Flushing It said Herbert had confirmed the decision directly; Golf Monthly, Golf Digest and Australian Golf Digest subsequently reported the move. An important distinction remains: choosing the European circuit is not the same as already securing full playing rights there.

Why this departure matters Herbert is not leaving after a slump. The 30-year-old enjoyed a standout 2026 season, winning two individual LIV Golf events and finishing fourth in its season-long individual standings. At The Open at Royal Birkdale, he carded a 62 to equal the lowest-round record in men's majors and ultimately tied for sixth. The following week, he shot 61 in a round on his way to victory at LIV Golf UK. Those performances make his departure more consequential than the loss of a fringe member of the field.

The question for Ripper GC Herbert played for the all-Australian Ripper GC alongside captain Cameron Smith, Marc Leishman and Elvis Smylie. The team finished runner-up in the 2026 standings. Losing an in-form contributor creates an obvious sporting and roster challenge. However, as of the reporting reviewed, Smith had not announced a definitive decision on his own LIV 2.0 participation. A similar exit by the captain should not be treated as confirmed.

Why October 25 is in focus LIV Golf is operating under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection while attempting to fund a proposed LIV 2.0 structure. Golf publications report that a possible financing package of up to $300 million from BC Partners depends on securing sufficient player commitments, with October 25 a key deadline. Herbert joins a number of recognizable names opting against the new model. His decision raises the pressure on the plan, but it does not establish that the financing has failed or that the league has ceased operating.

The next hurdle is eligibility A DP World Tour return will require more than a public intention. According to Golf Monthly, Herbert does not currently hold the status needed for a full European Tour schedule, and restrictions affecting former LIV players complicate an immediate PGA TOUR comeback. The issue to watch is how his 2027 playing opportunities will be arranged, rather than assuming a tour card has already been awarded.

Sources: Golf Monthly, October 23; Golf Digest, October 23; Australian Golf Digest, October 24. The accompanying photograph is archival, from 2017, and does not depict the October 2026 decision.