Official World Golf Ranking Announces Decision on LIV Golf
The Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) has made a significant announcement regarding the LIV Golf League’s recognition for ranking points. Starting with the 2026 season, only the top 10 finishers in LIV Golf events will earn ranking points, categorizing these tournaments as “small field tournaments.”
LIV Golf’s Fifth Season Launches in Riyadh
The LIV Golf League kicks off its fifth season on Wednesday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This decision marks a long-awaited moment for LIV, which sought ranking points since its establishment in 2022. However, after being denied by the OWGR board in October 2023, the league did not renew its application until July 2024.
Key Changes to OWGR Points Distribution
According to OWGR’s announcement, points will now be awarded based only on the top 10 finishers and ties in LIV Golf’s individual stroke play events. Lower finishers will not receive any ranking points, and there will be no redistribution of points from players who finish below the top ten.
- Ranking points for the winner of the Riyadh event: ~23 points
- Typical points for DP World Tour events: ~23 points
- PGA Tour opposite events: ~half of a regular event
- WM Phoenix Open projected winner points: 59
- AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am projected winner points: 60s
LIV Golf’s Response to OWGR Restrictions
LIV Golf expressed disappointment at the limited points allocation. The league stated that the ranking system disproportionately affects players who consistently perform well but may not finish in the top 10. This decision creates parity issues compared to other competitive tours.
The OWGR is critical for players seeking entry into major championships. For instance:
- The Masters includes the top 50 players from the OWGR
- The PGA Championship typically takes the top 100 players
- The U.S. Open uses the top 60 players at select points
- The British Open accepts the top 50 players two months prior
Adjustments to LIV Golf’s Format
After the OWGR’s initial rejection, LIV Golf has modified its format for ranking consideration. They have increased tournament length to 72 holes and expanded player fields from 48 to 57 participants. Additionally, the relegation zone now includes 11 players, who risk being dropped from the league.
This shift also allows for greater competitive fluidity, with players needing to earn their spots back through specific events. LIV Golf has increased the opportunities available in both the Promotions tournament and through the Asian Tour’s International Series, allowing for five new players.
OWGR’s Criteria for Ranking
The OWGR maintains strict criteria for ranking eligibility, emphasizing meritocratic pathways. Points awarded are subject to the average field size and cut rules, aiming for equitable treatment of all players across competing tours.
Overall, the OWGR’s decision acknowledges the talent present in LIV Golf but emphasizes the need for a structured approach that matches other sanctioned tours. Discussions between LIV CEO Scott O’Neil and OWGR’s chairman, Trevor Immelman, have proven essential in drafting this new arrangement.
