Graeme McDowell has defended LIV Golf’s decision to sign NCAA Champion Michael La Sasso, describing it as a positive move for young players entering the professional game.
Graeme McDowell praised Michael La Sasso for joining Phil Mickelson’s HyFlyers GC instead of pursuing a PGA Tour card, arguing that the LIV Golf model offers a fairer opportunity for rising talent.
The 21-year-old declined his Masters’ invitation and remaining college eligibility to sign with LIV Golf for the 2026 season.
Graeme McDowell says LIV Golf offers a legitimate pathway for young players
Speaking on social media after Michael La Sasso’s signing was announced, Graeme McDowell said LIV Golf gives young players structure, mentorship, and stability early in their careers.
The former U.S. Open champion said the PGA Tour has become too restrictive for new players, leaving many highly skilled golfers without a clear pathway to the top level.
“Hot take but LIV is a legitimate pathway for young potential superstars who can get paid to be mentored in their young careers by Tour greats and play a guaranteed schedule.
“The road to the PGA Tour is increasingly perilous and littered with great talent that never made it.”
“It is becoming increasingly a closed shop, like LIV, with harder and narrower pathways to get there,” McDowell said. “Getting there is arguably harder than staying there.”
McDowell said golf remains one of the few sports where top young talent can fail to reach elite level, claiming LIV Golf gives them a more reliable route to develop and compete globally.
Michael La Sasso signing reignites debate over PGA Tour access
Michael La Sasso’s move has drawn global attention as he becomes the latest top college golfer to choose LIV Golf over the PGA Tour.
He will now play under Phil Mickelson with HyFlyers GC, as the Saudi-backed league continues its strategy to recruit younger players.
La Sasso’s decision to skip the Masters and join LIV Golf has sparked fresh debate about whether the PGA Tour still offers open access for emerging players.
McDowell’s comments have strengthened the case that LIV’s system may become the preferred route for the next generation of golfers.
Read More: Scottie Scheffler gives his honest reaction to Brooks Koepka returning to PGA Tour
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
