GOLF.AI • Jan 20, 2026

NCAA Champ Forfeits Masters for LIV Golf

In a stunning move that escalates the battle for emerging talent, reigning NCAA individual champion Michael La Sasso has forfeited his coveted invitation to the 2026 Masters to turn professional and join LIV Golf. The decision represents a major strategic victory for LIV in its recruitment war with the PGA Tour.

La Sasso is joining Phil Mickelson's HyFlyers GC, a move Mickelson praised by calling him "one of the most exciting young players in the game today." Mickelson believes La Sasso could be the "missing factor" his team needs to secure its first victory. The financial power of LIV was also highlighted by La Sasso's college coach, who described the offer as a "no-brainer," underscoring the immense incentive for young stars.

This development serves as a direct counter-narrative to recent reports of young players like Angel Ayora rejecting LIV offers to chase a traditional PGA Tour path. La Sasso's choice to sacrifice a "golden ticket" to Augusta proves LIV Golf is a highly attractive and viable option for the world's best young players, forcing a re-evaluation of what the next generation truly values.