LIV Golf Will Expand to 72 Holes in Bid For World Ranking Points

LIV Golf, the Saudi-funded league known for its 54-hole events with shotgun starts, is expanding to 72 holes for the 2026 season and adding a few extra qualifying spots in a move that could boost its bid to be recognized by the Official World Golf Ranking.

The name of the league — the roman numeral for 54 — was built around its faster pace over three rounds instead of the traditional four on most other circuits.

The shotgun start will remain for a league that is likely to see 57 players. LIV previously said it would take the leading two available players from the International Series ranking on the Asian Tour, and two players from the qualifying tournament in January.

Scott O'Neil, the LIV Golf CEO, did not mention the OWGR in the announcement Tuesday, saying only the move to 72 holes marks a "pivotal new chapter" that strengthens the league and challenges the players.

"The most successful leagues around the world ... continue to innovate and evolve their product, and as an emerging league, we are no different," O'Neil said. "LIV Golf will always have an eye towards progress that acts in the best interest of LIV Golf and in the best interest of the sport."

Bryson DeChambeau, the two-time U.S. Open champion and one of the top figures in LIV Golf, got straight to the point on what the change to 72 holes will mean.

"Everyone wants to see the best players in the world competing against each other, especially in the majors, and for the good of the game, we need a path forward," DeChambeau said in a statement released by LIV.

"By moving to 72 holes, LIV Golf is taking a proactive step to align with the historic format recognized globally. This is a fantastic evolution of the LIV Golf product, showing how our League listens and