What's Happening?
LIV Golf has announced a significant change to its tournament format, moving from a 54-hole to a traditional 72-hole setup starting in 2026. This decision marks a new chapter for the league, aiming to strengthen
competition and increase engagement with its global audience. The change is expected to benefit fans, players, and media partners by offering more golf and enhancing the overall experience. Team events will continue alongside individual play, with shotgun starts and entertainment offerings remaining integral to LIV Golf events. The league's global audience reportedly grew by nearly 90% in 2025, indicating strong momentum.
Why It's Important?
The shift to a 72-hole format aligns LIV Golf more closely with traditional golf tournaments, potentially increasing its legitimacy and appeal among golf enthusiasts. This change could attract more viewers and sponsors, enhancing the league's financial and competitive standing. For players, the extended format offers a greater challenge and opportunity to showcase their skills over four rounds, similar to major tournaments. The move reflects LIV Golf's strategic efforts to expand its influence and market share in the global golf industry.
What's Next?
LIV Golf's 2026 season will commence on February 5 at LIV Golf Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. The league will continue to refine its team championship format and explore further innovations to enhance its offerings. Stakeholders, including players and sponsors, are likely to monitor the impact of the format change on viewership and competitive dynamics.
