Full Breakdown
Victor Perez Joins LIV Golf's Cleeks Golf Club for 2026 Season
11/19/2025, 4:55:50 PM
Transition from PGA Tour to LIV Golf
Victor Perez, a 33-year-old French golfer, has become the first player in 2023 to leave the PGA Tour for LIV Golf, officially joining the Cleeks Golf Club for the upcoming 2026 season. The announcement was made by LIV Golf on November 19, 2023, following Perez's withdrawal from the RSM Classic, where he was at risk of losing his PGA Tour card after ranking 108th in the FedEx Cup standings. He replaces Frederik Kjettrup, who was relegated after finishing outside the top 48 players in the 2025 season.
Background and Career Highlights
Since turning professional in 2015, Perez has established himself on the global stage, securing three titles on the DP World Tour: the 2019 Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, the 2022 Dutch Open, and the 2023 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. He also represented France at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite his achievements, Perez struggled during the 2023 PGA Tour season, with only one top-10 finish in 25 events.
Official Statements and Responses
In his statement regarding the move, Perez expressed enthusiasm about joining the Cleeks Golf Club, stating, “Joining Cleeks Golf Club for the 2026 season feels like joining golf’s next great chapter... The sport’s growth has been incredible, and LIV Golf’s innovation and energy are driving it forward.” Martin Kaymer, the captain of Cleeks Golf Club, welcomed Perez as the final piece of their roster, emphasizing the team's focus on building a stronger unit and contributing to the next generation of golf stars.
Criticism and Opposition
The announcement of Perez's move has sparked mixed reactions within the golf community. Critics have expressed concerns about the implications of players leaving the PGA Tour for LIV Golf, often referring to the latter as a "swamp" due to its controversial funding sources. Some fans have voiced disappointment, suggesting that Perez's decision reflects a broader trend of talent migration from traditional tours to LIV Golf, which is perceived as undermining the competitive landscape of professional golf.
What's Next for Perez and Cleeks Golf Club
Victor Perez is set to make his debut for the Cleeks Golf Club at the season opener in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in February 2026. The team, which includes notable players such as Martin Kaymer, Richard Bland, and Adrian Meronk, aims to build on its previous season's performance and establish a stronger presence in the LIV Golf league.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Speaking on his decision to make the move, Perez said: “Joining Cleeks Golf Club for the 2026 season feels like joining golf’s next great chapter, as this club continues to push boundaries, perform at the highest level, and bring fresh energy and vision to the game.” — Victor Perez
- “There’s been tremendous interest in joining Cleeks Golf Club, and we’re thrilled to welcome Victor as the final piece of our roster.” — Martin Kaymer
- “Victor embodies the precision and passion that will help us forge that path.” — Martin Kaymer
- “He has the talent, the mindset, and the style to elevate our team both on the course and beyond it.” — Jonas Martensson, Cleeks Golf Club General Manager
The signing of Victor Perez marks a significant moment in the ongoing evolution of professional golf, as LIV Golf continues to attract players from established tours, reshaping the competitive landscape of the sport.
