LIV Golf to Expand to 72 Holes: A Game-Changing Shift for 2026
LIV Golf is dramatically altering its tournament format starting in 2026, moving from its signature 54-hole events to the customary 72-hole structure used by the PGA tour and DP World Tour. This significant change aims to enhance the fan experience,address player concerns,and crucially,pave the way for official world ranking points.Here’s a complete breakdown of what you need to know.
Why the Change? Addressing Ranking & Player Feedback
Launched in 2022, LIV Golf intentionally disrupted the established golf landscape with its 54-hole, three-day format. The “LIV” name itself – representing the roman numeral for 54 – symbolized this departure.
The initial goal was to offer a faster-paced, more streamlined event. This meant less travel time for players, a key attraction for those seeking a different lifestyle. Though, this unique format inadvertently created a major hurdle: it prevented LIV players from accumulating official world ranking points.
According to reports, pressure from players seeking to maintain their competitive standing and eligibility for major championships was a driving force behind this decision. Expanding to 72 holes aligns LIV Golf with the standards required for official recognition.
What to Expect from the New Format
Here’s how the changes will unfold:
* 72 Holes: All LIV Golf events will consist of four rounds of play.
* Thursday Starts: Most tournaments will begin on Thursday,mirroring the traditional golf schedule.
* Riyadh Exception: The LIV Golf Riyadh event in February will be an exception, starting on Wednesday.
* Team & Individual Play continues: The popular team and individual competition elements will remain central to the LIV Golf experience. Team scores will still be steadfast by the cumulative stroke play of individual team members.
* Shotgun Starts Remain: To maintain the fast-paced atmosphere LIV Golf is known for, shotgun starts – where all players tee off concurrently on different holes – will continue.
* Team Championship Details Coming Soon: The format for the season-ending Team Championship will be announced separately.
The Benefits: More Golf, More Engagement
LIV Golf’s CEO, Scott O’neil, frames this as a pivotal moment for the league. He believes the move to 72 holes will:
* Strengthen the league: Elevate the overall quality and competitiveness of LIV Golf.
* Challenge Players: Provide a more demanding test for the world-class field of golfers.
* Enhance Fan Experience: Deliver more world-class golf, energy, and innovation to a growing global audience.
O’Neil draws parallels to successful leagues like the IPL, EPL, NBA, MLB, and NFL, emphasizing the importance of continuous innovation and evolution. He sees this change as a strategic step to solidify LIV Golf’s position in the sport.
What This Means for You, the Golf Fan
This shift represents a significant evolution for LIV Golf.You can anticipate:
* Longer Events: More days of golf action to follow your favorite players and teams.
* Increased Competition: A more challenging format that could lead to even more dramatic finishes.
* Greater Legitimacy: The potential for LIV Golf players to earn official world ranking points,impacting their eligibility for major championships.
* Continued Innovation: LIV Golf’s commitment to a unique and engaging experience,even with the adoption of a more traditional format.
LIV Golf is clearly aiming to establish itself as a long-term force in professional golf. This move to 72 holes is a strategic step towards achieving that goal, balancing innovation with the need for recognition and legitimacy within the wider golfing world.
