In a seismic shift that could reshape professional golf's landscape, LIV Golf has confirmed it will abandon its controversial 54-hole format in favour of the traditional 72-hole structure from the 2026 season onward.
The End of an Era: Shotgun Starts Scrapped
The Saudi-backed tour will phase out its signature shotgun starts that saw all players begin simultaneously across different holes. This radical departure from LIV's original format represents a significant concession to golfing tradition and could pave the way for improved relations with established tours.
Strategic Evolution or Necessary Compromise?
LIV Golf Commissioner and CEO Greg Norman revealed the changes in an internal memo to players, stating the transition would occur following the 2025 season. The move comes as LIV continues its efforts to gain Official World Golf Ranking recognition, with the 54-hole format being a major sticking point.
The new structure will feature:
- Traditional 72-hole tournaments over four days
- Elimination of shotgun starts
- Implementation of a relegation system
- Maintenance of team competition elements
What This Means for Golf's Future
This format alignment could significantly impact ongoing negotiations between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. The changes address several criticisms levelled at the breakaway tour while preserving its unique team-based approach that has attracted both controversy and star players.
The announcement signals LIV's willingness to adapt its revolutionary model, potentially creating common ground for the sport's fractured ecosystem to find reconciliation.
