The Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit has received a significant and timely boost, with officials confirming that "progress" is being made towards its events being awarded crucial world ranking points. This encouraging update comes just days after the tour was rocked by the high-profile departure of five-time major champion Brooks Koepka.
A Crucial Step for LIV's Legitimacy
Trevor Immelman, the chairman of the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) board, provided the positive news. The South African, who won the Masters in 2008, stated that discussions with LIV have been "regular and remain ongoing" since the tour's application was submitted. He emphasised the OWGR's commitment to handling the application with "fairness, integrity and consistency."
"To be clear, progress has been made, but there is no decision to share at this time," Immelman said. The potential awarding of OWGR points is seen as vital for LIV's long-term credibility and its ability to attract and retain top talent.
Koepka's Departure Sends Shockwaves
The progress on rankings comes against the backdrop of a major setback for LIV. Just before Christmas, on 23 December, American star Brooks Koepka announced he would not honour the final year of his contract in 2026. Koepka was one of the tour's founding marquee signings in 2022 and is one of only two players, alongside Bryson DeChambeau, to win a major championship while competing in the breakaway league.
His exit leaves a substantial void and raises questions about player retention. Koepka could now face a ban before a potential return to the PGA Tour or DP World Tour.
Format Changes and Contract Talks
In related developments, LIV has confirmed its events will shift from 54 to 72 holes starting in the 2026 season. Interestingly, the OWGR has simultaneously announced it will adjust its points allocation for shorter tournaments, with 54-hole events receiving 75% of the standard points.
Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau, the other LIV major winner, is currently negotiating an extension to his contract. He hinted that Koepka's departure strengthens his bargaining position ahead of the new season, which begins in Riyadh in February. "Things have got to change. Things have got to improve," DeChambeau remarked, indicating he seeks further evolution within the league.
Leadership and Major Hurdles
The tour also operates under new leadership, with Scott O'Neil having replaced Greg Norman as CEO last year. Despite the OWGR progress, a broader reconciliation between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour appears distant, with both entities reportedly planning independent futures.
The lack of ranking points has been a persistent obstacle for LIV golfers attempting to qualify for the sport's four majors, unless they hold a prior exemption. The situation has also been a hurdle in recruiting emerging stars, though new signee Tom McKibbin recently qualified for the Masters and The Open via a victory on the Asian Tour.
