Bubba Watson: Multiple LIV teams fighting to sign same player

With his status for the 2025 LIV Golf season up in the air, RangeGoats GC captain Bubba Watson told a UK golf site that he wants to play despite finishing in the relegation zone this season.

“My dream scenario is play next year,” the two-time Masters champion told Bunkered this week. “I’m the owner, if I really want to I can put myself in there. We’ve got to just see what’s out there, what’s available.”

Watson, 46, hasn’t finished in the top 10 of a LIV event since May 2023 and missed the cut at this week’s Saudi International on the Asian Tour, which features 41 other LIV Golf members.

As for why LIV has yet to sign marquee players this offseason, Watson said multiple teams are competing for one player.

“People want a lot of money. After we took the chance, we did all the stuff to make the league start, people think they’re owed as well,” Watson said.

“There’s a few (names) out there. There’s a couple teams battling for the same person. We’re looking everywhere, the best amateurs. I’m not looking just for an American. Someone who can help us going forward. I would love to see a bit more youth on my team … we’ve got to make moves fast.”

Watson jokingly said that if his team were to sign Rory McIlroy, he would step aside for the four-time major champion.

“Rory (McIlroy) might call me and say, ‘Hey man, can I have a spot?'” Watson said. “That’s what I’m saying. We’ve got to wait and see.”

Along with Watson, Pat Perez of the 4Aces faces an uncertain future. The 48-year-old Perez, whose contract expires on Jan. 1, didn’t have a top-10 finish at any 2024 event and missed the Saudi International cut at Riyadh Golf Course.

Recent 4Aces acquisition Thomas Pieters of Belgium, 32, posted consecutive rounds of 67 and is tied for 11th at the Saudi event.

–Field Level Media