Inside The Ropes: Each week, a handful of Golf Monthly’s tour experts have their say on some of the biggest stories in the game – comment your view below and we’ll make sure to reply or answer in detail via our mailbag feature.
Announced on Tuesday, it was a pretty shocking turn of events for a circuit which had largely stood firm in the face of any and all criticism it received since emerging in 2022.
However, a change in CEO last year appears to have led to the PIF-backed circuit softening its stance on certain issues and recognizing that if it does not change a few aspects of the league, it may cease to exist in the long-run.
In terms of why LIV has switched from 54 to 72 holes, Elliott Heath has written a thoughtful and detailed article on the business reasons for this decision.
Here, a few of the Golf Monthly team share what we think about the news. And if you want to tell us how you feel about LIV’s big decision, there is a comments box at the bottom of this page – we’d love to hear from you.
Nick Bonfield
It feels very much like LIV’s switch to 72 holes is a precursor to the circuit eventually securing world ranking points – something it’s been striving for since its inception. I’d be surprised – no, shocked – if executives at the Official World Golf Ranking weren’t consulted before the move.
It remains to be seen if the introduction of cuts follows suit, but it’s worth remembering only three of the eight PGA Tour signature events send golfers packing after 36 holes.
In terms of watchability, will anything change? I’m not sure it makes too much of a difference. I suspect those who have no interest in the Saudi-backed league won’t suddenly tune in because an extra round has been added as the same issues still remain – no cuts, too many over-the-hill professionals being paid far too much money and a team element that fails to capture the imagination.
The alignment with the PGA Tour and all other major global circuits in terms of rounds played could make things smoother if any sort of merger eventually happens, but it’s been more than two years since the shock announcement and we’re no closer to any sort of deal.
I ultimately…
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