According to a former PGA Tour champion, the breakaway LIV Golf circuit may have finally discovered its first true homegrown superstar, a development that could significantly boost the tour's credibility.
Kaufman's Bold Prediction
Smylie Kaufman, who won on the PGA Tour in 2015, has publicly identified young talent Tom McKibbin as the player poised to fill the void. Kaufman argued that while LIV has successfully attracted established stars, a key criticism has been its inability to cultivate a major talent from within its own ranks.
He pointed to McKibbin as the potential answer. The Northern Irish golfer, who will turn 23 in December, made the switch to the Saudi-backed league in January 2025, joining Jon Rahm's Legion XIII team.
McKibbin's Meteoric Rise and McIlroy's Disappointment
Kaufman highlighted McKibbin's recent victory at the Hong Kong Open, where he triumphed with a stunning tournament record of 27 under par. This win not only showcased his skill but also earned him a coveted spot in The Masters.
Financially, the move has been highly lucrative for the youngster. "If you go out and play well, Tom has made, I think, it’s like $5 million to this point," Kaufman noted, emphasising the significant earnings from both on-course performance and likely signing bonuses.
The decision to join LIV, however, was met with disappointment from his mentor and fellow countryman, Rory McIlroy. The 2025 Masters champion had expressed his personal disappointment at the time, stating, "I feel like he's giving up a lot to not really benefit that much." Despite his misgivings, McIlroy confirmed he would not stand in McKibbin's way.
A New Pathway for European Talent
Kaufman's comments suggest that LIV Golf could be emerging as a viable alternative pathway for young European players seeking success outside the traditional tour system. McKibbin's progress, including his rise in the world rankings, demonstrates that achievement on the LIV circuit can lead to major championship qualifications.
Reflecting on his debut year, McKibbin himself described the experience as "incredible," praising the opportunity to learn from teammates like Rahm, Tyrrell Hatton, and Caleb Surratt. He emphasised the unique team dynamic, noting the special feeling of playing for his teammates even when competing individually.
With a major championship debut on the horizon and a multi-million dollar start to his career, Tom McKibbin is rapidly becoming the homegrown star that LIV Golf has been searching for.
