The 2010 Open Champion has decided against signing a new deal with LIV Golf, bringing an end to his playing role and captaincy of Southern Guards GC, the all-South African team he has led since the league's launch.

Oosthuizen admits the decision was one of the most difficult of his professional career, given his commitment to team golf and the close relationships he has developed with his teammates.

Louis Oosthuizen - Jon Ferrey/LIV Golf

However, the 43-year-old believes greater control over his playing schedule will help him remain competitive for the next few years.

“I realised I have a lot more in me, and my biggest fear was that the schedule on LIV 2.0 would be tough to manage,” Oosthuizen said.

“I feel I have a few more years of good, competitive golf left in me, and the only way to be really sharp and competitive is through a schedule I control.”

Dean Burmester, Louis Oosthuizen, Branden Grace, and Charl Schwartzel at Leopard Creek - Sunshine Tour

Despite his decision to move on, Oosthuizen remains a firm believer in the LIV Golf team concept and says his connection with Southern Guards GC will not change.

The team brought him together with fellow South Africans and longtime friends Charl Schwartzel, Branden Grace and Dean Burmester, creating a unique chapter in his career.

One of the standout moments came in March 2026, when LIV Golf staged its first tournament in South Africa at Steyn City. Southern Guards GC finished second in front of their home supporters, recording their best result of the season.

Oosthuizen described bringing the international league to South African soil as one of his proudest career achievements.

Louis Oosthuizen after winning the Alfred Dunhill Championship at Leopard Creek - Sunshine Tour

“Bringing LIV Golf to South Africa was one of the best things I've done in my career. It was for the people of South Africa, and I think it was a great success. That's the best thing that came out of this year,” he said.

He also expressed his appreciation to the league and its financial backer, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, for the opportunities and relationships formed during his time with LIV Golf.

Oosthuizen's return to the DP World Tour represents a homecoming of sorts. He began his professional career in 2002 before joining the tour as a young player in 2004, and is looking forward to competing at venues he has not visited for some time.

While his playing career will take a new direction, the South African says his departure will not diminish his affection for Southern Guards GC.

“Southern Guards is my team. It always has been and it always will be. That's what makes this so difficult,” he said.

“This is probably the hardest decision I've had to make in my career, but I have to do what I believe is right for my golf. It doesn't change how I feel about the team or the guys.”

 Before turning his attention to preparations for the 2027 season, Oosthuizen will compete in the 65th Link Hong Kong Open from 22 to 25 October 2026 at Hong Kong Golf Club in Fanling.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport