Former world No.1 Dustin Johnson remains one of LIV Golf’s biggest stars — and he’s not going anywhere. The American, who became the highest-ranked player to join the Saudi-backed breakaway league in 2022, has reportedly agreed to a new contract as LIV prepares for its fifth season in 2026.
With merger talks between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour currently at a stalemate, Johnson’s decision to re-sign underscores his commitment to the project that first lured him away from the PGA Tour with a staggering $125 million deal — nearly double his previous career earnings of $74 million. While the league’s recent financial tightening means his new contract won’t match that record sum, Johnson’s continued presence gives LIV both credibility and continuity.
The 41-year-old, known for his laid-back demeanor and his life in the spotlight alongside his model wife Paulina Gretzky, became the perfect face of LIV Golf’s fresh, entertainment-driven image. He won the inaugural LIV Individual Championship in 2022 and led his team, 4Aces GC, to back-to-back team titles in 2022 and 2023.
However, since defecting, Johnson’s world ranking has plummeted — from No.13 in 2022 to No.595 in 2025 — largely because LIV events don’t offer Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points. He also struggled in the majors this year, missing the cut in three. Yet, his move still makes perfect sense.
The shorter LIV schedule fits his lifestyle, allowing more family time while still playing elite-level golf. Moreover, team captains like Johnson reportedly own equity stakes in their franchises, meaning continued participation helps protect their long-term investments.
Golf news outlet Flushing It confirmed that Johnson had met with LIV officials in New York to finalize the new deal and will return as captain of 4Aces GC in 2026. “Most players up for renewal have already agreed terms and will be teeing it up next season,” the outlet reported, dispelling rumors of mass player departures.
Johnson’s re-signing is a stabilizing move for LIV amid reports of heavy financial losses. UK filings show LIV Golf’s losses climbed to $461.8 million in 2024, up from $395 million in 2023 and $243 million in the 18 months prior. Despite those figures, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) — led by Yasir Al-Rumayyan and worth nearly $1 trillion — remains committed to backing the league.
While stars like Jon Rahm, Brooks Koepka, and Bryson DeChambeau continue to headline LIV’s lineup, Johnson’s loyalty reinforces the sense of unity within the tour — a “band of brothers” ethos that has become part of its identity.
Johnson himself summed up the LIV experience best:
“The fans who come all seem to like it and have a good time, and the more the merrier.”
For Johnson and LIV Golf, this renewed partnership isn’t just about money — it’s about maintaining a lifestyle, a brand, and a belief in a new version of professional golf that continues to challenge the old order.
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