Budding SA golf star explains Utah withdrawal amid LIV Golf rumours

Aldrich Potgieter said he withdrew from the Bank of Utah Championship due to illness, at least temporarily quelling rumours that the young South African is contemplating a move to LIV Golf.

Potgieter carded an opening round 71 on Thursday but withdrew before the start of the second round at Black Desert Golf Course.

He took to Instagram to explain the sudden withdrawal.

"Hey everyone, just wanted to clear things up since I've been getting a lot of messages. I had to withdraw after Round 1 because I came down with some pretty bad food poisoning (or a stomach bug)," he wrote. "Nothing serious, just need some rest to recover. Appreciate all the messages and support."

Potgieter, 21, has enjoyed a strong rookie season on the PGA Tour. The big-hitting young star finished runner-up in Mexico before claiming his maiden win on tour at the Rocket Classic in June.

The win secured Potgieter's status on the PGA Tour for the next two years, but his name has been tied to recent speculation about players who may be in discussions to sign with LIV Golf for 2026.

Potgieter, who sits outside the top 60 in the Official World Golf Ranking, has not publicly addressed the rumours.

 If he can rise into the top 50 by the end of the FedEx Cup Fall season, Potgieter would earn a spot in the first two signature events on the PGA Tour next season.

"I think to get into those first two big events, it's important to start off your year strong," Potgieter said in an interview with the PGA Tour.

"To get into those two big events would give me a head start against some of the other guys."

Meanwhile, the Sports Business Journal reported that Potgieter is expected to switch agencies from GSE Worldwide for Entertainment Sports Partners, which also represents fellow South African and World Golf Hall of Fame member Ernie Els.

"Many have tabbed Potgieter as a player who may join LIV Golf this offseason. Els has been outspoken against LIV since its launch," the SBJ reported.

The Bank of Utah event has suffered from several withdrawals. Lanto Griffin withdrew during the first round, Potgieter and Vince Covello pulled out before the second round and Emiliano Griffin, Camillo Villegas and Gordon Sargent all withdrew during the second round.