As the 2026 PGA Championship approaches, all eyes are on the 11 LIV Golf players who will tee it up at Aronimink—one more than we saw at the Masters earlier this year. While only one of them has ever held the Wanamaker Trophy, this group brings a mix of seasoned champions, rising talents, and in-form contenders ready to make their mark on the season's second major.
Phil Mickelson, a two-time PGA champion, withdrew from his second straight major due to a family health matter, leaving five fewer LIV players in the field compared to 2025. Still, those who remain have plenty of pedigree and recent momentum. Let's rank them from the long shots to the legitimate threats.
11. Martin Kaymer – The lone PGA champion in the LIV contingent, but his form has been a concern. Kaymer has missed five of his last six cuts in this major and has only made the weekend five times since his 2010 victory.
10. Dustin Johnson – DJ nearly won the PGA in 2010 and finished runner-up in both 2019 and 2020. However, he's missed the cut in three of his last five starts at the championship, making him a wild card this week.
9. [Player Name] – A bit of a sleeper here. After a T-5 finish in Mexico City, he's been a steady but unspectacular middle-of-the-pack performer in 2026. Could surprise if he finds his rhythm.
8. Smylie Kaufman – Feels too low at No. 8, but the numbers tell the story. He's sixth in LIV's season-long standings and won the season opener, but consistency has eluded him since. A bounce-back week is possible.
7. Cameron Smith – Far from his 2022 peak, Smith still flashes the talent that made him a major champion. Can he put four rounds together on one of golf's biggest stages? That's the question.
6. Joaquin Niemann – Recorded his best major finish at the 2025 PGA with a T-8. His 2026 form hasn't been spectacular, but Niemann has the firepower to contend if everything clicks.
5. [Youngster Name] – Gaining valuable experience in golf's biggest events, this rising star seems due for a breakthrough week. The stage is set for a statement performance.
4. Thomas Detry – Quietly putting together a strong LIV campaign. Ranked fourth in the season-long standings, Detry has the game and the momentum to be a surprise contender at Aronimink.
3. Tyrrell Hatton – Now we're talking heavy hitters. Hatton can absolutely win if he gets hot with the putter—and keeps his emotions in check. His talent is undeniable.
2. Bryson DeChambeau – After a runner-up finish at the 2025 PGA and a win earlier this season on LIV, DeChambeau is peaking at the right time. His power and creativity make him a threat on any course, especially one that rewards bold play.
1. [Top LIV Player] – The clear favorite among LIV's contingent. With a major title already on his resume and strong recent form, he has the experience and confidence to challenge for the Wanamaker Trophy.
Whether you're rooting for a LIV star to capture another major or just love the drama of championship golf, this year's PGA Championship promises plenty of storylines—and maybe a few surprises from the Saudi-backed league's best.