LIV Golf to Implement 72-Hole Format Starting 2026, New Chapter for Tournament Formerly 'Against the Mainstream'

After three years as a "differentiator" in professional golf, LIV Golf has finally decided to align with the traditional format. Starting in the 2026 season, all LIV tournaments will be played over 72 holes, matching the format of major tournaments on the PGA Tour and DP World Tour.

This decision marks a significant shift for the Saudi-backed league. Since its debut in 2022, LIV Golf was known for its 54-hole format, with the name "LIV" itself derived from the Roman numerals for 54.

New Format, A Step Towards Higher Credibility

Since its inception, LIV Golf has often been criticized for its unconventional format. With only 54 holes and a shotgun start system (all players starting on different holes simultaneously), many viewed its level of competition and credibility as below the standard of official world tours.

Consequently, LIV players did not receive Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points, crucial for qualifying to play in the four global major tournaments.

But now, LIV Golf is preparing to open a new chapter. Tournaments will start every Thursday, aligning with the schedule of major tournaments, except for the LIV Golf Riyadh in February which will start on Wednesday.

A Win for the League and Players

This move received a positive response from LIV star Jon Rahm, who recently won his second consecutive title in the league.

"This is a win for the league and the players," said Rahm, a two-time major champion and former world number one golfer.

"LIV Golf is a players’ league. We are true competitors and want every opportunity to compete at the highest level and refine our abilities. Moving to 72 holes is the next logical step that strengthens the competition, tests us more deeply, and looking at last season's fan enthusiasm—gives the fans more of what they want."

Dustin Johnson and DeChambeau Welcome the Change

Not just Rahm, another former world number one, Dustin Johnson, also welcomed this change with open arms.

"Playing 72 holes feels more like the big tournaments we've always played since we were kids," said Johnson. 

"I've always loved the four-round battle."

Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau believes this decision is important for the future of global golf.

"Everyone wants to see the world's best golfers compete against each other, especially in the majors. For the good of the sport, we need a way forward," he said.

A New Era of Competition Begins

LIV Golf Chief Executive Scott O’Neil called the move to a 72-hole format a significant moment in the league's evolution.

"This change marks a new chapter for LIV Golf that strengthens our league, challenges our elite players, and delivers more of the world-class golf, energy, innovation, and access that global fans want," O’Neil said.

He added that this change is part of efforts to position LIV alongside the world's major sports leagues.

"The most successful leagues in the world like the IPL, EPL, NBA, MLB, and NFL continue to innovate and evolve. As a developing league, we are no different," he said.

LIV Golf Towards Full Legitimacy

With this new format, LIV Golf is not only trying to increase competitiveness but also fighting for legitimacy in the eyes of the international golf world.

Fans hope this move could reopen opportunities for LIV golfers to earn world ranking points again and compete in major tournaments.

Starting in 2026, each LIV Golf tournament will feature 72 holes of stroke play for individual competition, while the team category will still use the cumulative scores from each player.

This major change could be a bridge to a new chapter where LIV is no longer a rival league, but an integral part of the world golf ecosystem.(BBC)