Poulter leaves LIV as exodus of big names continues

Ryder Cup legend Ian Poulter has become the latest star name to confirm he is quitting LIV Golf - leaving the breakaway tour's future looking increasingly uncertain.

The 50-year-old Englishman was among a plethora of stars lured by LIV when the Saudi Arabia-backed project was launched in 2022 and was a staunch defender of the circuit when it was criticised.

But Poulter has followed the likes of major champions Jon Rahm and Louis Oosthuizen in announcing his departure.

He has said he wants to help his two sons, Luke and Joshua, pursue professional careers, as well as develop his YouTube channel.

Saudi's Public Investment Fund withdrew its backing from LIV in April - having pumped in more than $5bn (£3.8bn) - leading to the league filing for bankruptcy protection in the United States last month.

It has secured a possible $300m (£224m) in financing from BC Partners Credit to try to move forward with 'LIV 2.0', but only a handful of players have so far committed to the proposed competition in 2027.

"I wanted everyone to hear it direct from me that I have decided to not move forward with being part of LIV 2.0," Poulter wrote on his social media channels.

"Needless to say, it was a tough decision and one I thought about and discussed at length with my family and team.

"Ultimately, the opportunity to spend more time at home with my family, reduce international travel, focus on senior golf and have the opportunity to pursue other interests was something that I felt was right for me at this stage of my life and career."

Former world number five Poulter was co-captain of the Majesticks team alongside fellow Englishman and Ryder Cup icon Lee Westwood. Westwood's future plans remain unclear.

Poulter's decision to leave comes in the same week as 2010 Open champion Oosthuizen, who captained the Southern Guards GC team and said quitting was the "hardest decision" of his career.

Last week, two-time major winner Rahm gave up a reported £75m owed to him by LIV after reaching a separation agreement.

Abraham Ancer and David Puig are also leaving while Sergio Garcia, Thomas Pieters, Tom McKibbin, Laurie Canter and Adrian Meronk appear unlikely to stay with LIV.

Richard Bland, Cameron Tringale and Brendan Steele are three of the few players to commit to the second phase of the breakaway circuit.

LIV's future could hinge on whether it can secure the signature of American superstar Bryson DeChambeau, who ESPN reported earlier this week "remains committed" to the league.

In his statement, Poulter acknowledged LIV has "clearly divided opinion", but said he will be "forever proud" to be part of its founding group.

"Change is never easy and it's fair to say professional golf has experienced plenty of it over the last few years," he added.

"But I've always believed that change can create opportunity and ultimately lead to positive outcomes.

"There will undoubtedly be more changes ahead, but I am confident the game will continue to grow, evolve, and deliver the very best for golf fans around the world."