Sam Burns’ Thoughts on Future of Golf with LIV and PGA Tour

Sam Burns never considered leaving the PGA Tour for LIV Golf when the league started in 2022. He didn’t fault those who did move, though. In an exclusive interview with OutKick, Burns expressed willingness to welcome players like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau back to the PGA Tour, considering it beneficial for golf.

I think it’s best for the game of golf as a whole, Burns stated. You want to play against the best players every week. Burns and DeChambeau were seen together at the 2026 Open Championship’s third round at Royal Birkdale.

Burns believes a path will emerge for those players to return. Ultimately, I think there will be a path back for those guys, he speculated. Burns stayed loyal to the PGA Tour, dismissing rumors of his potential departure to LIV. I fully support the PGA Tour 100 percent, he declared in 2022.

Though he did not follow those who left, Burns chose not to criticize them. I don’t really fault anyone for the decision they make, he said. He recognized that others’ personal circumstances might differ from his own.

Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka both faced challenges in their journeys. The PGA Tour’s Returning Member Program allowed Koepka’s return but involved financial penalties. Meanwhile, LIV experienced significant changes due to redefining financial backing and scheduling alterations.

With LIV’s future uncertain, Burns admitted the topic was complicated. Still, he focused on his desire to see top competition back on the course, a sentiment shared by many golf fans.

I think ultimately you’ll see those guys back, Burns concluded, hopeful for the game’s future.