LIV Golf's Format Change Marks New Chapter for League
In a significant shift, LIV Golf announced its decision to adopt a four-day, 72-hole tournament format starting from the 2026 season. The move is intended to strengthen the league, challenge its elite field of players, and deliver more world-class golf to its global audience.
According to LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil, this change represents a pivotal new chapter for the league, aligning with the historic format recognized globally. By moving to 72 holes, LIV Golf aims to create a better experience for fans and provide players with an opportunity to compete against each other in a more traditional tournament setting.
The main driver behind this format change is LIV Golf's quest to gain inclusion in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR). Currently, LIV Golf events do not award OWGR points, which has limited its ability to attract top players. With the 72-hole format, players will receive OWGR points, allowing them to compete more effectively with players from other tours.
Players have been advocating for this change, citing the need for a more traditional tournament format to prepare for major championships. Two-time major winner Jon Rahm praised the move, stating that it strengthens competition, tests players more fully, and delivers what fans want.
The league has also announced plans to double roster spots at its qualifying events, including the LIV Golf Promotions Event in Florida and the Asian Tour's International Series. This initiative aims to provide more pathways for players to qualify for the league.
While some critics may see this format change as an attempt to legitimize LIV Golf, others view it as a necessary step towards growth and recognition within the golf community. As one former CEO noted, "It is the Roman numeral for 54," suggesting that the new format has both aspirational and practical implications.
As LIV Golf embarks on this new chapter, the league will need to address concerns regarding its place in the golf world. With this format change, it remains to be seen whether LIV Golf can convincingly demonstrate its commitment to creating a more inclusive and competitive environment for players.
In a significant shift, LIV Golf announced its decision to adopt a four-day, 72-hole tournament format starting from the 2026 season. The move is intended to strengthen the league, challenge its elite field of players, and deliver more world-class golf to its global audience.
According to LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil, this change represents a pivotal new chapter for the league, aligning with the historic format recognized globally. By moving to 72 holes, LIV Golf aims to create a better experience for fans and provide players with an opportunity to compete against each other in a more traditional tournament setting.
The main driver behind this format change is LIV Golf's quest to gain inclusion in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR). Currently, LIV Golf events do not award OWGR points, which has limited its ability to attract top players. With the 72-hole format, players will receive OWGR points, allowing them to compete more effectively with players from other tours.
Players have been advocating for this change, citing the need for a more traditional tournament format to prepare for major championships. Two-time major winner Jon Rahm praised the move, stating that it strengthens competition, tests players more fully, and delivers what fans want.
The league has also announced plans to double roster spots at its qualifying events, including the LIV Golf Promotions Event in Florida and the Asian Tour's International Series. This initiative aims to provide more pathways for players to qualify for the league.
While some critics may see this format change as an attempt to legitimize LIV Golf, others view it as a necessary step towards growth and recognition within the golf community. As one former CEO noted, "It is the Roman numeral for 54," suggesting that the new format has both aspirational and practical implications.
As LIV Golf embarks on this new chapter, the league will need to address concerns regarding its place in the golf world. With this format change, it remains to be seen whether LIV Golf can convincingly demonstrate its commitment to creating a more inclusive and competitive environment for players.