Patrick Reed’s comments after winning the Dubai Desert Classic on the DP World Tour are likely to generate more discussion than the win itself.
It seemed like LIV Golf had settled their 2026 lineup once Harold Varner III was named as the replacement for Brooks Koepka at Smash GC.
“It’s a tough one because I love playing over here. I want to stay,” said Reed after his win. “I hope things get worked out. But right now, I think it’s time for me to go back and play [in] America.”
Patrick Reed comments on future PGA Tour talks
Reed has left the door open about his next move. He called the PGA Tour the best stage in golf, adding that if a chance came up to return, he would have to think about it. After his win in Dubai, he revealed something unexpected—he hasn’t technically signed a contract for the 2026 season yet.
At this point, the 2018 Masters champion isn’t eligible for the Returning Members Program. Still, he was asked if he’s been in discussions with the PGA Tour about a possible comeback.
“Not right now,” Reed replied.
Reed may end up being the player who puts the PGA Tour in a tough spot.
Patrick Reed comments could create a problem for the PGA Tour
It made sense for Ponte Vedra to keep that door open to only a select few, especially with Koepka showing interest in a return. Reed doesn’t currently fit into that Returning Members Program, but he did mention he’s not even under contract yet.
And it would certainly be difficult for them to justify changing those rules just because it is Reed. After all, he has been one of LIV’s more vocal supporters since he made the move.
This creates quite the dilemma for the PGA Tour. It doesn’t appear as though they can let him in just yet without undoing what they have tried to establish so far. But there’s little doubt that Reed still carries some weight, especially after his win on Sunday.
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