Bryson DeChambeau has been given substantial bargaining power over his future with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series.
After Brooks Koepka officially rejoined the PGA Tour, the LIV Golf setup is understood to be keen to keep its biggest names.
DeChambeau, a two-time major winner, is now expected to secure a contract extension worth an estimated £372million as he leverages the current instability.
LIV Golf officials are said to be incensed by the PGA Tour’s strategic move to welcome back former defectors, creating the lucrative opportunity for DeChambeau.
DeChambeau’s existing agreement is set to expire when the LIV season concludes in August, placing him in a formidable position during ongoing negotiations.
The departure of a key rival has handed the 32-year-old significant leverage, as the Saudi-funded league can ill afford to lose another headline act.
With a massive social media following of over three million, he remains the circuit's most significant draw and a priority for retention for Governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan.
Should his financial expectations not be met, the option remains for him to contact PGA Tour headquarters regarding a potential switch.
Bryson DeChambeau has been handed substantial bargaining power regarding his future with the Saudi-backed series
|GETTY
Speaking to Today's Golfer, DeChambeau remarked: "I've got a contract this year and that's just going to be an ever-evolving conversation. Hopefully, I'm back next year. I'm excited for the potential of LIV."
To facilitate his comeback, Koepka has agreed to strict terms that include a personal charitable contribution of £3.72million.
PGA Tour chief executive Brian Rolapp confirmed the 35-year-old will also forfeit his eligibility for the Player Equity Program for a five-year period.
This exclusion represents a significant financial hit, with estimates placing the potential loss between £37million and £63million.
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Bryson DeChambeau joined LIV Golf in 2022 | PAFurthermore, he is barred from receiving FedEx Cup bonus payments and must sit out the lucrative signature events this season unless he qualifies on merit.
Koepka gained entry through the 'Returning Member Program', a pathway reserved for major championship or The Players champions since 2022.
He is scheduled to make his competitive return in a fortnight at the Farmers Insurance Open.
Despite the pathway created for Koepka, fellow major champions Jon Rahm and Cameron Smith have declined the opportunity to return to the PGA Tour.
Bryson DeChambeau is one of golf's most popular names
| PABrian Rolapp, the Tour's chief executive, had extended the invitation to the pair under the newly established returning players scheme.
However, Smith reportedly holds absolutely no interest in rejoining the American circuit.
Rahm was equally emphatic about his commitment to LIV Golf, noting that he still has three years remaining on his contract.
The Spaniard said: "I wish Brooks the best, but I'm not planning on going anywhere.
"And as far as I'm concerned, I'm focused on the league and my team this year and hopefully we can repeat as champions again."
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