LIV Golf marks its third year anniversary, having made a notable impact in the golf world since its launch in 2022. The league’s first tournament was held at the Centurion Club, and following Talor Gooch’s win at Valderrama in Andalusia, LIV Golf UK is set for action at the JCB Golf and Country Club this weekend.
Despite facing challenges, including financial backing, a unique format, struggles for mainstream recognition, and ranking issues, LIV Golf has stirred up the golf scene but must tackle significant hurdles in the coming days.
Three years post its inception, LIV Golf is yet to secure world ranking points from the Official World Golf Rankings. The league’s bid for ranking points was turned down in October 2023 due to inadequate player pathways to the series.
Unlike traditional golf events, LIV Golf lacks weekly qualifiers and a consistent player roster. In the 2024 season, only one player advanced through the Promotions Event, with no qualifiers emerging from the Asian Tour’s International Series.
In a move announced in March 2024, LIV Golf withdrew its bid for OWGR points. This setback hampers players’ chances of qualifying for major tournaments such as the Ryder Cup.
Eugenio Chacarra expressed discontent with LIV Golf, stating that promises of OWGR points and major tournaments upon joining the league were unfulfilled. Notable players like Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka initially joined LIV Golf but some have returned to the PGA Tour, with speculation of more high-profile exits.
Fred Couples hinted at Koepka’s eagerness to return to the PGA Tour, while Koepka himself remains focused on his current obligations but has not ruled out a potential return to mainstream golf.
Koepka claimed victory at the 2023 PGA Championship, and DeChambeau triumphed at the thrilling 2024 US Open, making them the only LIV Golf players to secure major titles post their move. Players like Jon Rahm, Cam Smith, and Phil Mickelson have not added to their major wins since joining LIV Golf.
Paul McGinley highlighted the challenges faced by LIV Golf players in comparison to PGA Tour competitors regarding major tournaments, citing travel disadvantages as a key factor impacting performance at prestigious events.