Westwood mulls LIV Golf stay despite bankruptcy protection filing

English golfer Lee Westwood is considering continuing his association with LIV Golf, despite the organization filing for bankruptcy protection. The breakaway golf tour, which launched in 2022, announced on Tuesday that it had secured a new investor in BC Partners following Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund's (PIF) decision to withdraw its backing in April. A Chapter 11 petition was filed in the United States, with the reorganized company expected to be majority-owned by LIV players.

Speaking to UK radio station talkSPORT, Westwood expressed his enjoyment of playing on LIV, describing it as a "breath of fresh air." He confirmed that the new investor is being kept informed about LIV 2.0, the proposed new era of the tour. Westwood acknowledged that the first iteration of LIV had some shortcomings, stating that "whenever bankruptcy is mentioned, that's never a good idea. It's bad for a lot of people."

The restructuring is expected to be completed in early 2027, with PIF pledging $49.6 million to support LIV during the process. Westwood acknowledged that some LIV players may choose to leave, but he believes he will carefully evaluate LIV 2.0 before making a decision. The 53-year-old golfer, who enjoys the tour's team aspect and the 10 tournaments per year, stated that he is open to playing on the DP World Tour and the Legends Tour as well.