In a surprise turn of events, one player has announced their retirement from professional golf at the age of just 30 having spent most of the last three years involved with LIV Golf.
The PNC Championship this past week reminded us of how professional golfers can continue to play at an extremely high level well into their elder years. Lee Trevino turned 86 earlier this month.
Which of these LIV Golf stars would you least like to see back on the PGA Tour?
But that is not necessarily the path for everyone.
And one player has responded to being relegated from LIV Golf this season by deciding to call time on their professional career.
LIV Golf player announces his retirement from professional golf at the age of 30
Mito Pereira spent his time on LIV with Torque. It appeared to be a blow for the PGA Tour to lose the Chilean, particularly with so many international stars deciding to defect to LIV.
Pereira had also finished third at the PGA Championship in 2022 having stood on the 72nd tee with a one shot lead. Unfortunately, a double bogey put paid to his hopes of major glory in agonising fashion.
The 2025 season proved to be a huge disappointment for Pereira. His best finish of the year was tied for 13th in Chicago. And he ended up being relegated.
LIV do plan to enforce relegation this year. And Pereira did see his spot on Torque taken by Abraham Ancer. However, there could have potentially been an opportunity for Pereira to earn his place back through the Promotions Event.
But it seems that Pereira has no plans to try and secure a move elsewhere, as he announced his retirement on Monday.
What Mito Pereira has said about his decision to retire
Following the news, Pereira issued a lengthy statement on social media, explaining some of the reasons behind his decision.
He confirmed that he had been considering retirement for some time. And it seems that the travelling around the world ultimately led to his decision.
Pereira suggested that he plans to return to Chile and settle there.
“I’m writing these lines to share that, after a period of reflection, I have decided to bring my career as a professional golfer to an end. This was not a decision made overnight, but one I have been thoughtfully considering for some time, waiting for the right moment to communicate it.
“After many years connected to this beautiful sport, priorities naturally evolve. Today, my main desire is to step away from constant travel, return to Chile, and focus on my personal life.
“Golf played a fundamental role in my life. It allowed me to grow both personally and professionally, to meet incredible people, experience different cultures, and set goals—most of which I was fortunate enough to achieve—taking steps I never imagined possible. I now begin a new chapter feeling happy, motivated, and at peace, without urgency about what the future may bring. I simply want you to know that I am well and proud of what I accomplished in this sport.
“I carry with me unforgettable memories: the three Korn Ferry Tour titles that earned me a place on the PGA Tour; my time on the LIV Tour, where I discovered many destinations and truly enjoyed competing as part of an incredible team, Team Torque; and the honor of representing Chile at the Pan American Games and the Olympic Games. Standing on the podium in Lima 2019 and narrowly missing an Olympic medal in Tokyo 2020 are moments that will remain forever in my memory and in my heart.
“I would like to thank Anto, my family, and all my friends, both within and beyond golf. I am also deeply grateful to my manager, coach, team, sponsors who trusted the process, and the many fans that always made me feel loved. Throughout this long journey, many people supported and contributed to my development, and I will always be thankful to them.
“I spent many years living away from home in another country, countless weeks in hotels and airports. Now, the time has come to pause. Chile is my place in the world, and my family is my reason for being. Golf taught me resilience, how to navigate both good and difficult moments, and how to make discipline and goals a way of life. I believe I am well prepared for what lies ahead.”
It is a shame that he has decided to bring the curtain down on his playing career. But given his age, there is no reason why the door cannot be opened once again in the future should he get the urge to give things another go.