In a seismic development that could reshape the landscape of professional golf, LIV Golf has confirmed it will transition to a 72-hole tournament format for the majority of its events starting next season. This represents a fundamental shift from the 54-hole structure that has defined the controversial tour since its inception.
Major Players Back Format Evolution
The announcement comes with heavyweight backing from LIV's star players, including Masters champion Jon Rahm and former world number one Dustin Johnson. Both have publicly endorsed the move toward golf's traditional tournament length while maintaining LIV's distinctive features.
"The 72-hole discussion is something that we've had for a long time," revealed Rahm, who joined LIV Golf in a landmark deal last year. "I think it's a good step in the right direction."
Hybrid Approach Maintains LIV Identity
While adopting the conventional four-round format, LIV will retain its signature shotgun starts and team competition elements that differentiate it from traditional tours. The strategic compromise appears designed to appeal to golf purists while preserving the circuit's unique appeal.
Dustin Johnson emphasised the benefits of the new structure: "I like 72 holes. I think it's good for tournament golf, good for the fans. We're still going to have the team aspect and the shotgun start, which is great."
Strategic Move in Golf's Ongoing Turf War
This format evolution represents the most significant concession yet from the Saudi-backed tour as it positions itself for potential long-term coexistence with the established PGA Tour. The move addresses one of the most frequent criticisms levelled at LIV Golf – that its abbreviated format diminished competitive credibility.
The transition comes amid ongoing negotiations between LIV's financial backers and the PGA Tour, though a definitive framework agreement remains elusive. Industry analysts suggest the format change could facilitate future collaboration or even player mobility between the competing circuits.
What This Means for Golf's Future
- Enhanced competitive legitimacy for LIV Golf tournaments
- Potential pathway for future collaboration with PGA Tour
- Maintenance of LIV's distinctive team and entertainment elements
- Addressing traditionalist concerns while innovating format
As the professional golf world continues to navigate its fractured landscape, LIV's embrace of the 72-hole standard marks a pivotal moment in the tour's maturation process and its ongoing challenge to golf's established order.
