LIV Golf has suffered an early-season setback with veteran Lee Westwood ruled out of the league’s first two tournaments due to a wrist injury.
The 51-year-old Englishman confirmed he will miss the season-opening events in Riyadh and Adelaide after sustaining the injury while preparing for the new campaign. Westwood shared the update on social media, explaining that while the issue is not serious, medical advice has prompted him to reduce his workload to ensure a full recovery.
“Disappointingly, I sustained an injury to my wrist whilst practicing in preparation for the first event of the season,” Westwood said. “Thankfully, it’s nothing too serious, but I’ve been advised to manage my rep count over the coming weeks.”
Westwood, a co-captain of Majesticks GC, added that he expects to return to competition at LIV Golf Hong Kong from March 5–8, effectively sidelining him for the opening month of the season. Ben Schmidt will step in as his replacement for both tournaments.
Despite the absence, Westwood emphasised his continued support for his team, saying he would be backing Majesticks GC “from afar” during the opening stretch.
The withdrawal marks a rare absence for Westwood since joining LIV Golf, with his last missed event coming at LIV Golf Tulsa in May 2023. His situation contrasts with fellow veteran Phil Mickelson, who has also missed LIV events in the past due to injury, including the Riyadh tournament in 2025.
Westwood’s absence comes at a notable moment for LIV Golf, with the Riyadh opener once again scheduled as an evening event aimed at maximising global television viewership. While the league has stressed the injury is precautionary, the loss of high-profile veterans at the start of the season adds pressure as LIV looks to build momentum in 2026.
