GOLF.AI • Feb 25, 2026

The Chacarra Precedent: A LIV Exit Ramp?

Eugenio Chacarra's recent departure from LIV Golf has raised questions about a viable "exit ramp" for players seeking to return to traditional tour structures. The Spanish golfer highlighted a significant motivation crisis, explaining that while LIV offered immense financial rewards, it lacked the competitive incentives of ranking points and major championship access. "On LIV, nothing changes, there is only money," Chacarra stated. "It doesn't matter if you finish 30th or first, only money." This sentiment drove his decision, as he felt he was "losing a little motivation to get better" during his final year on the circuit.

Since leaving LIV, Chacarra has found renewed purpose on the DP World Tour, which he says gave him "a little more of what real golf is." He praised the traditional format, saying, "Having a cut, having to grind, playing every week with a lot of players. It's fun to see where my game is, where I need to improve... to get on the PGA Tour quick." This shift has been accompanied by a significant physical and mental transformation. Chacarra has lost weight and intensified his training, a change he credits for his new focus. "I wake up every day motivated to get better and having goals to achieve, it's completely changed my mindset," he explained.

Chacarra's path forward is now tangible. A recent win at the 2025 Hero Indian Open secured his full-time status on the DP World Tour, and he has now been granted a sponsor exemption to compete in the Puerto Rico Open—his first professional start in a regular PGA Tour event. This opportunity is a critical step toward fulfilling a childhood ambition. "My goal since I was little is to be on the PGA Tour," Chacarra said. "I'm excited to finally get a chance to play on the PGA Tour." His journey represents a potential blueprint for other players disillusioned with the LIV model.