LIV Golf, known for its breakaway status in professional golf, will soon be included in the world ranking points system, but not without restrictions. This decision by the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR) board comes after much anticipation.
Limited Points Allocation
Despite the development, only the top 10 finishers, plus ties, in LIV's 57-player field will earn these ranking points under the new rules. This is notably different from other professional tours, where every player making the cut can earn points.
Rationale for the Decision
The OWGR explained its move as an attempt to represent the evolving landscape of men's professional golf. However, they emphasized that LIV Golf still fails to meet certain eligibility criteria necessary for full point distribution.
Comparison with Other Tours
The points awarded to the winner of the first LIV event are projected to be 23.03, close to those given in European DP World Tour events. For context, winners of PGA Tour events, like the WM Phoenix Open, receive about 59 points. The most prestigious PGA signature events afford winners 66 points and even 37 points in events with no cuts, similar to LIV's format.
Significance of OWGR Points
World ranking points are crucial because they affect qualification for golf's four major tournaments. This makes them vital for players' career opportunities and visibility.
Players Returning to PGA
Recently, prominent golfers such as Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed decided to leave LIV Golf to return to the PGA Tour. Their departures highlight ongoing shifts and decisions in the professional golf arena.
The situation underscores the complex dynamics shaping professional golf today, reflecting both opportunities and the challenges within different tours.
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