From its inception in 2021 to the recent announcement of a merger, the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Series has navigated through a series of controversies and obstacles. As the regular season-ending tournament approaches in Jeddah, the golfing world eagerly awaits the league’s next move to secure its place in the sport.
The OWGR’s decision to exclude LIV Golf players from ranking points has dealt a significant blow to the league’s aspirations. Despite their efforts to secure points by partnering with the MENA Tour in 2022, LIV Golf’s golfers found themselves empty-handed, missing out on crucial ranking benefits.
On a fateful Tuesday, the OWGR sent a letter to Greg Norman and Gary Davidson, the de facto directors of the circuit, announcing the unanimous decision not to award points to Middle Eastern-based League golfers. Peter Dawson, chairman of the board, pointed out that the decision stemmed from the distinct format employed by LIV Golf, deviating from the traditional 72-hole system seen in top tournaments.
Dawson clarified that the OWGR’s stance is not a declaration of war against LIV Golf but a technical decision. He emphasized that LIV Golf players do not compete on a level playing field with other tours and thousands of players striving for equitable rankings.
Additionally, the OWGR argued that the Saudi-backed league lacks the promotion and relegation structure present in other golf tours. While other tours offer over 40 players opportunities through programs like the Korn Ferry Tour, PGA Tour University, and the DP World Tour’s grassroots events, LIV Golf only allows three players to enter tournaments through an end-of-year promotion event, with the fourth spot assigned via the Asian Tour.
In response to the OWGR’s ruling, LIV Golf criticized the world rankings for failing to fairly represent all participants. They argued that this lack of representation diminishes the quality of traditional tournaments, including major championships, by depriving them of the best possible fields.
LIV Golf expressed their dissatisfaction with the ranking system, asserting that the community gains no benefits when the best player performances go unrecognized. Despite this setback, the league remains committed to leveling the playing field and assuring their stakeholders of an independent ranking system to showcase the game’s best talent.
The future remains uncertain for LIV Golf as they strive to regain their footing and secure their place in the golf world. Whether they will continue to pursue ranking points under the OWGR banner remains to be seen.
