LIV Golf's surprising U-turn: From short formats to 72-hole tournaments
LIV Golf, the Saudi Arabian-backed golf league, has made a dramatic shift in its format, moving away from its initial 54-hole tournaments to a more traditional 72-hole schedule. This decision, believed to have been influenced by player feedback, marks a significant change for the league, which has been a disruptor in the golf world since its inception. The question now is whether this move will help LIV Golf gain more acceptance and recognition in the sport.
The Evolution of LIV Golf's Format
Initially, LIV Golf's unique selling point was its shorter, three-day tournaments, with the name itself derived from the Roman numeral for 54 (LIV). However, the league has now decided to align more closely with traditional golf tours, which typically consist of 72-hole tournaments over four days. This change could potentially address concerns raised by players about the preparation needed for major championships, as the shorter format may not have provided enough practice and competition.
Player Feedback and the Need for Change
Two-time major winner Jon Rahm expressed the sentiment of many players when he stated, 'LIV Golf is a player's league, and we want every opportunity to compete at the highest level and perfect our craft.' The move to 72 holes is seen as a logical step to strengthen the competition and better prepare players for the rigors of major events. Dustin Johnson, another double major winner, echoed this sentiment, saying that playing 72 holes 'feels more like the big tournaments we've all grown up playing.'
A Public Relations Challenge
This shift in format presents a public relations challenge for LIV Golf. The league's founder, Greg Norman, explained the original name choice, stating, 'It is the Roman numeral for 54, which has two meanings: an aspirational aspect and the number of holes to be played in each event.' The change to 72 holes may require a reevaluation of the league's branding and messaging to ensure it remains consistent with its new format.
The Future of LIV Golf
As LIV Golf continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this change impacts its relationship with the official golf rankings and the broader golf community. The league's focus on innovation and progress, as stated by CEO Scott O'Neil, suggests that this is just one step in a broader strategy to enhance the LIV Golf experience and its appeal to players and fans alike.
