With LIV Golf’s 2026 line-up still being finalised, it is worth keeping an eye on players who step away from other tours early in the season.
For instance, if Si-woo Kim were to pull out of the Sony Open in Hawaii later this month, it would likely set off a wave of speculation. That event at Waialae is where the new PGA Tour season gets underway.
However, one of this year’s first withdrawals has occurred for a remarkable reason.
Former PGA Tour winner steps aside from Korn Ferry event in classy move
The 2026 Korn Ferry Tour season begins in the Bahamas, with many of golf’s rising stars hoping to start strong and work their way towards a PGA Tour card.
Back in 2020, Tommy Gainey took home the title, marking his first Korn Ferry win in nearly ten years.
Gainey also has a PGA Tour win on his record and most recently picked up the Constellation Furyk & Friends title on the PGA Tour Champions circuit in October 2025.
Thanks to his status as a past champion, he was set to play again on Paradise Island this year. But according to Monday Q Info on X (formerly Twitter), the 50-year-old decided to withdraw and open up a spot for a younger player.
Gainey stressed the necessity of allowing ascending individuals these opportunities, especially considering the extensive number of modifications already implemented.
How Tommy Gainey’s withdrawal was received by the tournament director
While Gainey may not have spent as much time on the PGA Tour as he might have hoped, his name is still familiar to many fans. He is known for his unique habit of wearing two gloves throughout his career.
And whoever steps in to replace him will likely come with less recognition.
But from what it sounds like, the Korn Ferry Tour took notice and appreciated what the 50-year-old did.
Monday Q Info noted that Gainey reached out directly to the tournament director to explain his decision, making it clear it was not a sign of disrespect towards the event.
The director noted that most players would not have made the same choice, praising Gainey for his decision.
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