At a Glance
> At a Glance
> – OWGR still undecided on awarding ranking points to LIV Golf’s 54-man league.
> – 54-hole tournaments receive 75% of standard points; 36-hole events get 50%.
> – LIV will play 72 holes in 2026, with its season opening Feb. 4 in Saudi Arabia.
> – Why it matters: Players and fans await official ranking status that could affect tournament eligibility and prize money.
The Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) board has not yet reached a decision on whether the Saudi-funded LIV Golf league will be granted ranking points. A recent update confirms that evaluation is ongoing, with no final verdict announced.
OWGR Evaluation Continues
The board continues to review the application that LIV submitted in late June, according to a Wednesday update. Trevor Immelman, the OWGR chairman, said the organization remains committed to its merit-based mission. He added that discussions are regular and ongoing, and while progress has been made, no decision is yet available.
Trevor Immelman stated:
> “We remain committed to the OWGR’s mission, which requires honoring the meritocracy woven into the professional game. As such, discussions have been regular and remain ongoing. To be clear, progress has been made, but there is no decision to share at this time.”
Trevor Immelman continued:
> “We will continue to work closely with LIV Golf as it continues to evolve to ensure its application is handled with fairness, integrity and consistency, as stated previously.”
Points Reduction Rules
The OWGR has clarified how tournament length affects ranking points. Events played over 54 holes-or reduced to 54 holes due to weather-receive 75% of the original field rating and point distribution. Those completed in 36 holes receive 50% of the original rating.
| Tournament Length | Points Percentage |
|---|---|
| 54 holes (standard or weather-reduced) | 75% |
| 36 holes | 50% |
LIV Golf’s Format and Schedule
LIV Golf played 54 holes during its first four seasons but will shift to 72 holes in the 2026 season. The league’s first event of the new season will begin on Feb. 4 in Saudi Arabia, and its players have hoped to join the OWGR system, citing the majors’ use of OWGR for qualification.
- Big Easy developmental tour in South Africa
- MENA Tour based in Dubai
The European Tour had a couple of events reduced to 54 holes this year, such as the South African Open and Singapore Classic.
Key Takeaways
- OWGR has not yet approved LIV Golf’s ranking points.
- 54-hole tournaments earn 75% of points; 36-hole events earn 50%.
- LIV will adopt 72 holes in 2026 and starts its season Feb. 4 in Saudi Arabia.
Until the OWGR board issues a formal decision, LIV players and fans remain in limbo, with the league’s future standing in the global ranking system still uncertain.
