LIV Golf Evolves: 72 Holes and a Path to Major Championship Qualification
LIV Golf is making a notable shift in its format, announcing a move to 72-hole events beginning in 2026. This change aligns the Saudi Arabia-backed tour wiht the standard format of established professional golf circuits like the PGA tour and DP World Tour. For those following the sport, this represents a pivotal moment in LIV Golf’s ongoing progress and quest for legitimacy.
Why the Change? Addressing Ranking Concerns
Launched in 2022,LIV Golf initially disrupted the scene with its 54-hole tournaments – a nod reflected in the tour’s very name (LIV being the Roman numeral for 54). though, this unconventional format became a major sticking point. It contributed to the denial of Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points for most LIV events, impacting players’ ability to qualify for major championships.
Here’s a breakdown of the key issues:
* OWGR Importance: Ranking points are crucial for securing entry into golf’s four majors - The Masters, PGA Championship, U.S. Open, and The Open championship.
* Ranking Slides: Without OWGR points,LIV Golf players have seen their rankings plummet. Such as, Jon Rahm, a two-time major winner, currently sits at 71st in the world, while Dustin Johnson, another former number one, has fallen to 604th.
* Format Alignment: Adopting the 72-hole format is a direct response to these concerns, aiming to satisfy OWGR criteria and open the door for LIV players to compete in the biggest events.
What Does This Mean for you, the Golf Fan?
The change to 72 holes isn’t just about rankings; it’s about enhancing the overall experience for players and fans alike. You can expect a more familiar tournament structure, mirroring the events you’re accustomed to watching.
Here’s what you can anticipate:
* traditional Schedule: Most events will now be played Thursday through Sunday, with the exception of LIV Golf Riyadh in February, which will start on Wednesday.
* Increased Competition: Players believe the longer format will provide a more rigorous test of skill and endurance.
* Enhanced Fan Experience: The extended play offers more opportunities to witness top-tier golf action.
Player Reactions: A Positive Step Forward
Leading players on the LIV Golf tour have largely welcomed the change. Jon Rahm described the move as “a win for the league,and the players,” emphasizing the desire for competitive opportunities at the highest level. Dustin Johnson echoed this sentiment, stating that 72 holes “just feels a little more like the big tournaments we’ve all grown up playing.”
Bryson DeChambeau highlighted the broader implications,saying,”Everyone wants to see the best players in the world competing against each other,especially in the majors,and for the good of the game,we need a path forward.”
How the Competition Will Work
The individual competition at each regular season event will be determined over 72 holes of stroke play.Together, the team competition will continue, with each team’s cumulative individual scores determining the team result. This maintains the unique team dynamic that initially set LIV golf apart.
A League in Evolution
LIV Golf’s chief executive,Scott O’Neil,framed the move as a “pivotal new chapter” for the league. He drew parallels to successful sports leagues like the IPL, EPL, NBA, MLB, and NFL, all of which continually innovate and evolve.
Ultimately, this shift to 72 holes signals LIV golf’s commitment to establishing itself as a credible and competitive force in the world of professional golf. It’s a strategic move designed to attract players, engage fans, and secure a lasting place in the sport’s landscape.
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