Golf veterans Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter have acknowledged their relegation from the LIV Golf League after falling short in the individual standings at the end of the 2024 season. The English duo, both key figures in the breakaway league since its inception, will not retain their spots for the 2025 campaign after failing to meet the league’s performance criteria.
Under LIV Golf’s structure, players must finish within the top 24 of the individual standings or secure a contract extension to guarantee their place for the following season. Westwood, a former world No. 1, and Poulter, a fan favorite known for his Ryder Cup heroics, struggled for consistency throughout the year, leaving them outside the safety zone.
Westwood, 50, admitted the challenges of competing against a younger, deeper field. “It’s been a tough season, no excuses,” he said. “The competition is fierce, and I just didn’t perform well enough. I’ll weigh up my options, but I’m proud of what I’ve achieved in this league.”
Poulter, 47, hinted at potential negotiations for a wildcard or captain’s pick but acknowledged the reality of the situation. “It’s disappointing, but rules are rules,” he stated. “I still believe I have a lot to offer, whether here or elsewhere. We’ll see what the future holds.”
Both players could still return via LIV Golf’s Promotions Event—a qualifying tournament for relegated players and outsiders—or through team exemptions. However, their relegation marks a significant shift as LIV continues to prioritize emerging talent and high-profile signings.
The news has sparked debate among fans, with some calling for legacy protections for players who helped build the league, while others argue that performance-based retention ensures competitiveness.
As LIV Golf reshapes its roster for 2025, Westwood and Poulter’s absence will leave a void, but the league’s focus remains on its marquee stars and the ongoing battle for legitimacy in the golf world.
