Tom McKibbin Hit by Blow After The Open as LIV Golf Refuses to Keep Paying Fines

Northern Irish talent Tom McKibbin, fresh from a disappointing missed cut at Royal Portrush, has been dealt a further career setback as LIV Golf confirms it will no longer cover DP World Tour fines for its players beyond this season  .

McKibbin’s Open Disappointment

McKibbin entered The Open with growing expectations but exited early following a two‑over second round. He labelled his campaign as hindered by “stupid mistakes,” expressing frustration over avoidable errors despite overall solid play on greens and ball striking  .

The Fine Fallout

Since 2023, the DP World Tour has imposed fines—often around $100,000—for members who compete in conflicting LIV events. Up until now, LIV Golf has absorbed these costs. However, a new policy change means that from 2026 onward, players themselves must foot the bill  .

The league has already settled roughly £15 million (approx. $20 million) in fines and faces up to another £8–10 million should appeals by major names like Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton be denied  .

Consequences for McKibbin and Others

For young players like McKibbin—who joined LIV in early 2025 on a reported £4 million deal—the financial burden of these fines may restrict playing options and limit future international tournament access, including Ryder Cup eligibility.

Veterans such as Rahm, Hatton, Westwood, Poulter, and Stenson now face an uncertain future unless they pay these fines personally. Rahm has already expressed he has “no intention” of doing so  .

What’s at Stake

• Ryder Cup eligibility: DP World Tour membership and fine compliance are prerequisites. LIV Golf’s shift may block several European LIV players from future squads.
• Player mobility: Those who previously relied on LIV to absorb fines may now reconsider LIV attendance or seek alternative tour status.

Bottom Line

McKibbin’s missed cut at Royal Portrush was a blow—made worse by this new financial development. As LIV Golf withdraws its support for DP World Tour fines, the burden shifts to players. That could reshape the landscape for European golfers trying to maintain multi‑tour careers and major aspirations.