Dustin Johnson’s agent reveals ‘wheels are in motion’ for major career move after LIV Golf collapse
Dustin Johnson’s agent has revealed the former world number 1 is already considering his next career move following the collapse of LIV Golf, insisting the two-time major champion is still hungry to compete at the highest level.
Speaking to golf journalist Bob Harig on The Daily Drive, Johnson’s agent David Winkle provided an update on the American’s future.
“Everything is a little uncertain, but I can tell you that he continues his path to the highest level of competition,” Winkle said in a text message to Harig.
“Time will tell exactly what that looks like and what that entails, but the wheels are in motion.”
Johnson considers his options before 2027
Winkle also insisted that the 42-year-old has no plans to retire, adding: “Dustin is still very motivated and hungry to compete, so he has no plans to let up. I’m actually very excited about the coming months, wherever they find him playing.”
Johnson was one of the biggest names in LIV Golf since joining the breakaway league in 2022, and reportedly received a signing bonus of around 150 million dollars.
He then collected approximately $65 million in prize money and bonuses, winning three individual titles and captaining 4Aces GC to the inaugural team championship in 2022.
However, the withdrawal of $5 billion in support from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and the failure of a proposed bailout deal involving BC Partners left LIV facing liquidation.
Johnson seemed willing to continue under a restructured LIV 2.0 model, but those plans have now collapsed.
Johnson still hungry to compete at the highest level
PGA Tour return remains uncertain
A return to the PGA Tour appears to be one of Johnson’s main options, although the two-time major champion faces a complicated return path.
He is currently on a 12-month suspension following his departure from LIV Golf, having last competed in the tour’s end-of-season event in Indianapolis in August.
PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp has previously stressed the importance of enforcing the organization’s rules, suggesting an immediate return cannot be taken for granted.
Nonetheless, Johnson has a compelling case based on his professional accomplishments.
The 42-year-old has won 24 PGA Tour titles, including the 2016 US Open and the 2020 Masters, and sits sixth on the tour’s all-time money list with more than $75 million in career earnings.
His 24 PGA Tour victories also traditionally give him lifetime membership status, so it remains to be seen what happens there.
Unlike some former LIV colleagues, Johnson did not publicly criticize the PGA Tour upon his departure in 2022, which could potentially work in his favor if his reinstatement is ultimately considered.
Johnson lets loose during his final LIV Golf event
DP World Tour could offer a faster route
The DP World Tour could provide Johnson with a more immediate opportunity to return to competitive golf.
The European Tour would open the door to some DP World Tour appearances for former LIV players without category status in 2027.
GolfMagic Selected invitations for former LIV players with category status are not expected to feature Rolex Series events, according to an insider.
Johnson last appeared on the DP World Tour via invitation with a missed cut at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic in late January.
The former world number 1 also retains a lifetime exemption for the Masters following his 2020 victory at the famous Augusta National, but his exemptions for the other three majors have now expired.
Johnson is expected to either qualify or receive a special invitation to play in the PGA Championship, U.S. Open and The Open in 2027.
DJ has previously spoken about life beyond golf
Johnson has ambitions beyond golf
It may also be that Johnson’s future plans are driven by personal considerations.
The American has previously said he wants a relatively short professional career so he can eventually become a “sports dad.”
Married to Paulina Gretzky, daughter of ice hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, Johnson has two sons, Tatum and River, ages 11 and 9.
Spending more time supporting their sporting ambitions could become increasingly appealing as they get older.
For now, however, Johnson appears far from ready to walk away from professional golf.
Winkle’s comments suggest the 42-year-old remains motivated to compete and is determined to find another opportunity at the highest level.
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