The LIV Golf and Official World Golf Ranking saga has come to an end. CEO and Commissioner Greg Norman recently announced that LIV Golf has withdrawn its application for OWGR points, thereby concluding a nearly two-year battle for accreditation. Initially, the upstart circuit, supported by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, applied for points in July 2022. Unfortunately, they were denied accreditation last October due to the challenge of accurately comparing LIV events to other tournaments within the world ranking system.
LIV Golf stands apart with its unique format featuring a closed field of 54 players competing in 54-hole, shotgun start, no-cut events. Concerns were raised about the league’s qualifying and relegation methods, which further contributed to the denial of OWGR points.
Since joining LIV Golf, players’ rankings have experienced a significant decline, placing their futures in major championships at risk.
Player Rankings before and after Joining LIV Golf
| Player | OWGR before first LIV event | Current OWGR | Change in ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cameron Smith | 2 | 50 | -48 |
| Jon Rahm | 3 | 3 | 0 |
Of the 56 players who have competed thus far in the 2024 season, only six have managed to maintain or improve their ranking. Jon Rahm, who joined the league this year, has steadfastly held onto his No. 3 position. Notably, Anthony Kim, who made a highly anticipated comeback to professional golf through LIV Golf Jeddah, is not listed in the ranking due to his inactivity. Conversely, several players, namely Eugenio Chacarra, David Puig, and Andy Ogletree, have witnessed remarkable jumps in the rankings due to exceptional performances on other tours and their relatively short careers as professionals.
Kieran Vincent, who successfully earned a place in the league via the Asian Tour (which receives OWGR points) last season, has experienced minimal fluctuations in his ranking. Unfortunately, Martin Kaymer, once ranked 215th, has faced substantial challenges posed by injuries, resulting in a staggering drop of 3,148 places since joining LIV Golf in the summer of 2022.
Presently, only four LIV Golf players find themselves within the top 50 in the OWGR: Jon Rahm (3), Tyrrell Hatton (17), Brooks Koepka (30), and Cameron Smith (50).
The upcoming LIV Golf tournament takes place in Hong Kong at the Hong Kong Golf Club in Sheung Shui from March 8-10, 2024.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Why did LIV Golf withdraw its application for OWGR points?
LIV Golf withdrew its application following the denial of accreditation from the Official World Golf Ranking due to challenges in accurately comparing LIV events to other tournaments within the ranking system. Concerns regarding qualifying and relegation methods also influenced this decision.
How have players’ rankings been affected since joining LIV Golf?
Since joining LIV Golf, the majority of players have experienced a decline in their rankings. Out of the 56 players who have competed in the 2024 season, only six have maintained or improved their rankings.
Which players have seen the most significant drop in rankings?
Martin Kaymer, who joined as the 215th ranked player in the summer of 2022, has encountered major setbacks due to injuries, resulting in a remarkable drop of 3,148 places in the OWGR.
Are there any players who have shown improvement in their rankings?
While the majority of players have experienced a decline, a few individuals such as Eugenio Chacarra, David Puig, and Andy Ogletree have witnessed substantial jumps in their rankings due to outstanding performances on other tours and their relatively short time as professionals. Furthermore, Kieran Vincent has seen minimal fluctuations in his ranking since earning a place in the league through the Asian Tour.
Who are the top-ranked LIV Golf players?
Currently, the top-ranked LIV Golf players within the Official World Golf Ranking are Jon Rahm (3), Tyrrell Hatton (17), Brooks Koepka (30), and Cameron Smith (50).
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