Dustin Johnson’s agent reveals ‘wheels are in motion’ for major career move after LIV Golf collapse

Dustin Johnson's agent has revealed the former World No.1 is already exploring his next career move following LIV Golf's collapse, insisting the two-time major champion remains hungry to compete at the highest level.

Speaking to golf reporter Bob Harig on The Daily Drive, Johnson's agent David Winkle offered a significant update on the American's future.

"Everything is a bit up in the air, but I can tell you he is pursuing paths toward the highest level of competition," Winkle said in a text message to Harig. 

"Time will tell exactly what that looks like and entails, but the wheels are in motion."

Winkle also insisted the 42-year-old has no intention of retiring, adding: "Dustin is still very motivated and hungry to compete, so he has no intention of letting up. I'm actually very excited about the months ahead, wherever they may find him playing."

Johnson had been one of LIV Golf's biggest names since joining the breakaway league in 2022, reportedly receiving a signing bonus of around $150 million.

He subsequently collected approximately $65 million in prize money and bonuses, winning three individual titles and captaining 4Aces GC to the inaugural team championship in 2022.

However, the withdrawal of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund's reported $5 billion backing and the collapse of a proposed rescue deal involving BC Partners have left LIV facing liquidation.

Johnson had appeared willing to continue under a restructured LIV 2.0 model, but those plans have now fallen apart.

PGA Tour return remains uncertain

A return to the PGA Tour would appear to be one of Johnson's main options, although the two-time major champion faces a complicated route back.

He is currently subject to a 12-month suspension following his departure from LIV Golf, having last competed at the circuit's season-ending event in Indianapolis in August.

PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp has previously stressed the importance of enforcing the organisation's rules, suggesting an immediate return cannot be taken for granted.

Nevertheless, Johnson has a compelling case based on his career achievements.

The 42-year-old has won 24 PGA Tour titles, including the 2016 US Open and 2020 Masters, and sits sixth on the circuit's all-time money list with more than $75 million in career earnings.

His 24 victories on the PGA Tour have also traditionally provided lifetime membership status, so it remains to be seen what happens there. 

Unlike some former LIV colleagues, Johnson did not publicly criticise the PGA Tour when he departed in 2022, potentially working in his favour should reinstatement eventually be considered.

DP World Tour could offer quicker route

The DP World Tour could provide Johnson with a more immediate opportunity to return to competitive golf. 

The European circuit is reportedly opening the door to select DP World Tour appearances for former LIV players without category status in 2027.

GolfMagic understands from an insider that select invites for ex-LIV players with category status are not expected to feature Rolex Series events. 

Johnson last appeared on the DP World Tour via an invite with a missed cut at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic at the end of January. 

The former World No.1 also retains a lifetime exemption into The Masters following his 2020 victory at famed Augusta National, but his exemptions into the other three majors have now expired.

Johnson would need to either qualify or receive a special invite to compete in the PGA Championship, US Open and The Open in 2027. 

Johnson has ambitions beyond golf

There may also be a personal consideration behind Johnson's future plans.

The American has previously spoken about wanting a relatively short professional career so he can eventually become a 'sports dad'.

Married to Paulina Gretzky, daughter of ice hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, Johnson has two sons, Tatum and River, aged 11 and nine.

Spending more time supporting their sporting ambitions could become increasingly appealing as they grow older.

For now, however, Johnson appears far from ready to walk away from professional golf. 

Winkle's comments suggest the 42-year-old remains motivated to compete and is determined to find another opportunity at the highest level.