Thomas Detry Abandons PGA Tour for LIV Golf, Citing Family and Team Dynamics

In a swift turn of events, Belgian golfer Thomas Detry has left the PGA Tour to join the LIV Golf Invitational Series. Detry, who won the Waste Management Phoenix Open in 2021, explained that a phone call from a LIV recruitment boss and a conversation with friend Thomas Pieters led to his decision.

A Week of Internal Battle

Detry, 33, had been enjoying a comfortable position on the PGA Tour with a two-year exemption following his 2021 win. However, a Christmas Eve call from Pieters changed everything. Over the next week, Detry and his wife Sarah weighed the pros and cons, ultimately deciding to accept LIV’s offer.

Financial Stability and Lifestyle

For Detry, the move offers financial security for his family and a more settled lifestyle. “I also had the opportunity to join my friend Thomas Pieters,” said Detry. “On a daily basis, our life will have more meaning. We will be able to function differently.”

Joining Team 4Aces GC

Detry will join 4Aces GC, captained by two-time major champion Dustin Johnson. Alongside Pieters, he will also rub shoulders with 2018 Masters winner Patrick Reed. Detry is confident in his team’s potential, stating, “We have the talent, cohesion and mentality to be at the top all season.”

An Exciting New Chapter

Despite the difficulty of the decision, Detry is enthusiastic about starting his LIV Golf journey. “I live on the Emirates Golf Club course where the tournament is taking place next week,” he said. “I haven’t been able to play it for the last four years because each time I went back to the United States instead.”