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 tournament format, backtracking from its initial 54-hole, three-day events. This move comes after pressure from players, who felt the shorter format didn't adequately prepare them for major championships. The league's name itself, LIV, was inspired by the Roman numeral for 54, but now it seems a rebrand to LXXII (72 in Roman numerals) might be on the horizon.
The new 72-hole tournament format will mirror traditional golf tours, adding a layer of complexity and challenge. LIV Golf's CEO, Scott O'Neil, emphasizes the league's commitment to innovation and evolution, similar to other successful sports leagues like the IPL, EPL, NBA, MLB, and NFL. He believes this change will strengthen the competition and better serve the interests of both the league and the sport.
The statement from LIV Golf clarifies that the individual competition will be decided over 72 holes of stroke play, while the team competition will continue alongside, with cumulative individual scores determining the team's result. This shift has sparked debate, as it challenges the very nature of LIV Golf's initial appeal, which was its unique, shorter format.
Some players, like Jon Rahm, a two-time major winner, support the change, arguing that it provides more opportunities to compete at the highest level and perfect their craft. Dustin Johnson, another double major winner, agrees, stating that 72 holes feel more aligned with the big tournaments he's accustomed to. However, this move also presents a public relations challenge, as it contradicts LIV Golf's original branding and mission.
The original name, LIV, was chosen for its symbolic meaning, representing both the lowest possible score on a par 72 course and the number of holes played. This dual meaning was a key part of LIV Golf's aspirational message. The league's transition to 72 holes may prompt a reevaluation of its branding and identity, leaving fans and stakeholders curious about the future direction of this controversial league.
