Victor Perez became the first French golfer to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League on Tuesday, following his withdrawal from the final PGA Tour event of the fall season.

The 33-year-old was scheduled to compete in this week’s RSM Classic at Georgia’s Sea Island Golf Club but pulled out just before being announced as the latest signing for LIV Golf’s Cleeks team in 2026.

Perez, ranked 120th in the world, had been battling to retain his PGA Tour playing rights for next year. Sitting 108th in the PGA fall points standings, he needed a strong finish in this week’s tournament to move into the top 100 and secure full playing privileges for 2026.

By joining LIV Golf, Perez becomes ineligible to compete in PGA Tour events, due to the ban imposed on players who participate in the upstart series since its launch in June 2022.

A three-time winner on the DP World Tour, Perez claimed his most recent victory in 2023 at Abu Dhabi. On the PGA Tour, his best finish came earlier this year with a tie for ninth at the Canadian Open.

“LIV Golf’s innovation and energy are driving it forward,” Perez said. “I’m excited to be part of that momentum and can’t wait to get started in Riyadh.” He is set to make his LIV debut in Riyadh in February.