Laurie Canter has officially joined LIV Golf for the 2026 season, turning down the opportunity to compete on the PGA Tour. The announcement came from LIV Golf on Monday, confirming that Canter will be part of the Majestiks team. His decision means he is suspended from the PGA Tour, allowing his card to transfer to Daniel Brown.
Canter, who finished at No. 7 in the Race to Dubai, was one of ten players on the European Tour who secured a chance to join the PGA Tour. In his statement regarding the move, Canter expressed enthusiasm for his new role: “Joining Majesticks GC is an incredible opportunity to be part of a team that has helped shape LIV Golf from day one.”
Canter’s Unique Journey in Professional Golf
The 36-year-old English golfer’s journey took an interesting turn when LIV Golf launched in 2022. At the time, he had limited status on the European Tour and sought a competitive platform. He played in seven events during LIV’s inaugural year, finishing 28th in the standings. In 2023, he served as a reserve, competing eleven times as he filled in for injured players.
In early 2024, Canter began the season as a reserve once again, participating in two LIV events before being replaced by Anthony Kim. He then returned to the European Tour, where he achieved significant success, winning the European Open in Germany in 2024 and following it up with another victory in Bahrain in early 2025. These performances propelled him to No. 50 in the world rankings, granting him entry into The Players Championship, marking him as the first former LIV player to compete in this prestigious tournament, as well as securing a spot in the Masters.
Strategic Moves and Team Dynamics
Canter’s joining of LIV Golf coincides with the team’s dynamics, as he joins Victor Perez of France in this new chapter. The Majestiks, based in England, was originally formed by notable players such as Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter, and Henrik Stenson. Stenson’s failure to secure a top 48 finish this year created an opening for Canter, showcasing the competitive nature of the league.
Reflecting on his experience, Canter noted, “The league’s growth has been remarkable, and my experience in the league has led me to become a more complete player and a multiple winner on the DP World Tour.” He highlighted the Majestiks’ commitment to excellence and ambition, stating that the team’s identity resonates deeply with him.
The implications of Canter’s move are significant not only for his career but also for the broader landscape of professional golf. As LIV Golf continues to attract talent from traditional tours, the dynamics of competition are shifting. In addition to his recent achievements, Canter’s decision underscores the growing appeal of LIV Golf as a viable alternative for professional players.
Last year, Tom McKibbin similarly transitioned from the European Tour to LIV Golf after earning a PGA Tour card. However, since the new season had already commenced, his card was not passed to the next player in line. Canter’s signing with LIV before the end of the year has allowed Brown to accept the vacant card, illustrating the ongoing shifts in player affiliations and the competitive structure of professional golf.
As Canter embarks on this new chapter with LIV Golf, his journey serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of the sport, where players are increasingly weighing their options across various leagues and tours.
