LIV Golf has announced that it will be transitioning all its events to a 72-hole format – a move that was largely welcomed by the likes of Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson
Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson have weighed in on the significant changes coming to LIV Golf next year. The Saudi-backed league announced on Tuesday that it will transition all its events to a 72-hole format, despite initially distinguishing itself with three-day, 54-hole competitions.
Starting from next season, LIV Golf tournaments will span four days, commencing on the Thursday of event weeks. For LIV Golf Riyadh, play will kick off on Wednesday, February 4.
During the regular season, individual competition will feature 72 holes of stroke play, with team competition, still scheduled to run concurrently, being determined by each golf club’s cumulative individual stroke play scores.
The significant change was enthusiastically received by some of the biggest stars in LIV Golf – many of whom have tumbled down the Official World Golf Ranking standings after switching to the breakaway series.
OWGR points play a crucial role in helping golfers secure entry into major championships, which explains why LIV Golf is desperately pursuing inclusion in the ranking system.
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“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,” DeChambeau said.
“By moving to 72 holes, LIV Golf is taking a proactive step to align with the historic format recognized globally. This is a fantastic evolution of the LIV Golf product, showing how our League listens and adapts to create the best possible experience.”
Johnson echoed DeChambeau’s statement, adding: “I think it’s a great move for the League and I’m excited for it. Playing 72 holes just feels a little more like the big tournaments we’ve all grown up playing. I’ve always liked the grind of four rounds – it gives the best players a chance to rise to the top.
“LIV Golf has been a great experience from the start, and I think this makes it even better for the fans and for us out there competing.”
Discussing the move forward in an official statement, LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil said: “As we enter our fourth season as a League, the move to 72 holes marks a pivotal new chapter for LIV Golf that strengthens our League, challenges our elite field of players, and delivers more of the world-class golf, energy, innovation and access that our global audience wants.
“We’re seeing upward momentum and traction from Hong Kong to Adelaide to Indianapolis, and that heightened interest opens the door to add another day of golf while benefiting our fans, players, marketing partners, and our global media partners.
“The most successful leagues around the world – IPL, EPL, NBA, MLB, NFL – continue to innovate and evolve their product, and as an emerging league, we are no different. LIV Golf will always have an eye towards progress that acts in the best interest of LIV Golf and in the best interest of the sport.”
