LIV Golf has announced plans to move to 72-hole events starting next season, a decision that’s been well received by fans across social media.
From the beginning, LIV Golf has faced criticism over its 54-hole format and shotgun starts, with many feeling the structure didn’t align with the standards of traditional professional golf.
Some have even argued that this difference in format was holding back players from competing at their best in major tournaments.
Now, though, LIV have announced the move to 72-hole events from 2026 in what could be a huge step towards their golfers finally being awarded OWGR points. Fans were quick to react online, with many seeing this as a long overdue change.
LIV Golf’s move to 72 holes draws mixed response from fans
LIV Golf’s shift to a 72-hole format could address some of the ongoing criticism the tour has faced, while also providing new opportunities for its players.
It could be particularly significant for players like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau. The switch not only aligns them closer with traditional formats but may also improve their standing in terms of major championships and World Ranking points, which could have implications for events like the Ryder Cup.
The announcement quickly became a talking point on social media platform X, with opinions varying widely across the board.
One user wrote: “One more day people won’t be watching LIV and more money down the drain for the Saudis. Such a shame to see players like Bryson and Rahm playing on a Mickey Mouse tour.”
Another added: “Just what people want: an extra 18 holes of exhibition.”
“Potentially huge news, does that now mean World Ranking points can be accredited to LIV players as their format now mirrors the rest of the World Golf Tours,” one fan pointed out, while another pointed out what it could mean for the team event if cuts are introduced.
“Gonna need a cut now! That should be interesting for the team concept.”
The world ranking points were a big talking point, with another golf lover pointing out that “They had no choice. They were fighting an uphill battle to get world ranking points”.
Not everyone was sold on switching from 54 holes though, with one fan suggesting they would’ve preferred an alternative change instead.
LIV Golf’s new format forces the rest of the sport to pay attention
For years, the general feeling has been that LIV Golf couldn’t match up to the PGA Tour, and without some kind of merger, it was just a matter of time before it faded away.
But now, with the switch to 72 holes and the possibility of gaining OWGR points, LIV suddenly has a genuine opportunity to make an impact.
The changes could remove some of the barriers that had previously put people off joining. That’s significant and means LIV deserves to be viewed as a legitimate tour in its own right.
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If they can use this momentum to really build up their team format, they might actually succeed in bringing a new audience into the game over time.
This move to 72 holes is a major step forward and one that’s impossible to overlook.
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