What would you risk to turn a breakthrough season into financial stability for your family? For rising golf star Miguel Tabuena, the answer is simple yet daunting: everything.
Tabuena, a talented young golfer from the Philippines, has been making waves in the golfing world with his impressive performances on the course. But behind the glitz and glamour of the sport, lies a harsh reality – the struggle for financial stability.
In an industry where success is often measured by the size of your bank account, Tabuena understands the importance of securing his family’s future. And for him, that means taking a leap of faith and making a tough decision – to compete in the LIV qualifiers at Black Diamond Ranch, potentially shutting the door on PGA events for a year, and possibly two.
“I made the decision to join LIV Golf because I needed to secure my family’s future,” Tabuena said in an interview. “I know it’s a risk, but it’s a risk I’m willing to take for my loved ones.”
The LIV Golf is a new professional golf league that offers a lucrative prize pool of $10 million for its inaugural season. However, the catch is that players who participate in the league are not allowed to compete in any PGA Tour events for a year. And with the cancellation of the Q-School pathway this season, Tabuena knows that this could potentially mean two years without playing on the PGA Tour.
But for the 26-year-old golfer, the opportunity to secure his family’s financial stability outweighs the risks. Growing up in a modest household, Tabuena has always been driven by the desire to provide a better life for his loved ones. And with the LIV Golf offering a significant amount of money, he sees it as a chance to achieve that goal.
“I come from a humble background, and I’ve always wanted to give my family a better life. Golf has given me the platform to do that, and I don’t want to waste any opportunity to secure their future,” Tabuena shared.
Despite the potential consequences, Tabuena’s decision has been met with support and admiration from his fellow golfers. Many have praised him for his bravery and determination to put his family’s needs above his own.
“Miguel’s decision to join LIV Golf is a testament to his character and his love for his family. It takes a lot of courage to make such a sacrifice, and I have nothing but respect for him,” said fellow golfer and friend, Juvic Pagunsan.
Tabuena’s journey to becoming a professional golfer has not been an easy one. He started playing at the age of five and turned pro at the young age of 17. He has faced numerous challenges and setbacks along the way, but his passion and dedication to the sport have never wavered.
His hard work and perseverance have paid off, with Tabuena winning multiple titles on the Asian Tour and earning his PGA Tour card in 2016. But even with his success, the financial stability of his family has always been at the forefront of his mind.
And now, with the LIV Golf offering a life-changing opportunity, Tabuena is determined to make the most of it. He sees it as a chance to not only secure his family’s future but also to continue growing as a golfer and competing against some of the best players in the world.
“I see this as a challenge and an opportunity to improve my game and compete at a higher level. And if it means sacrificing a year or two on the PGA Tour, then so be it,” Tabuena said.
As the LIV Golf qualifiers approach, Tabuena’s decision to take the risk and compete in the league is a reminder that sometimes, the path to success is not always a smooth one. It takes courage, determination, and sacrifice to achieve one’s goals, and Tabuena embodies all of these qualities.
His story serves as an inspiration to all aspiring athletes and a reminder that sometimes, the biggest risks can lead to the greatest rewards. And for Tabuena, the reward of securing his family’s future is worth every risk he takes.

