LIV Golf Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection; Rahm and DeChambeau Owed Millions

LIV Golf voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Tuesday, listing Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau as top creditors owed a combined $13.2 million.

LIV Golf and its related entities voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court of New Jersey on Tuesday. According to court records, the league holds assets valued between $100 million and $500 million, while its liabilities are estimated between $500 million and $1 billion. The filing lists Jon Rahm ($7.5 million) and Bryson DeChambeau ($5.7 million) as the top two creditors among the 30 largest unsecured claims.

Other professional golfers owed significant past-due payments include Dustin Johnson ($5.5 million), Cameron Smith ($4.8 million), Tyrrell Hatton ($3.4 million), and Brooks Koepka ($1.7 million). These figures represent debt accrued prior to the filing date. Additionally, the state of Louisiana is listed as a creditor for $1.2 million. The league is also seeking recognition of these proceedings in England and Wales to protect international assets.

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which invested over $5 billion into the circuit since June 2022, will provide $49.6 million in financing subject to court approval. This follows an April announcement that the PIF would cease funding the league. As part of a restructuring support agreement with BC Partners Advisors, LIV Golf plans to return to competition in 2027 under a model where players are expected to hold majority ownership.

Recent financial adjustments included cutting the individual purse for an Indianapolis tournament by 50% and canceling events in New Orleans and Michigan. CEO Scott O’Neil stated the league intends to expand fields to 75 golfers and introduce Monday qualifiers. Future schedules are expected to include stops in Australia, South Africa, Mexico, England, Hong Kong, and the United States.