Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka has become the first LIV Golf star to leave, returning to the PGA Tour under a new reinstatement programme. His departure, described as amicable, follows the PGA Tour's aggressive new offer to lure back its former stars, creating immediate uncertainty for the breakaway circuit.

The PGA Tour's move, part of a new equity program for loyal players, has opened a door for others. While marquee names like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau have indicated they will stay, Patrick Reed has suggested he would consider leaving if terms were relaxed. This sets up a potential exodus.

LIV executives, including CEO Scott O'Neil, insist their vision remains unchanged and that their top players are committed. However, the series faces significant financial losses, reported at over $1.1bn since 2021, and questions about the sustainability of its massive contracts as Saudi investment priorities may be shifting toward other sectors.