The Golf Podcast Presented by Golficity · Golficity

Is the Latest Criticism of LIV Golf Fair?

·23 min·2 clips

Peter Dawson says LIV Golf hasn't been a success by any measure—is this criticism fair or a personal vendetta?

This episode analyzes recent criticism of LIV Golf from former OWGR chairman Peter Dawson and explores its potential impact on the sport's future. Hosts Mike and Bill from Golficity, who provide weekly golf news analysis, question the fairness of Dawson's remarks and predict a major upcoming change for LIV. They reference Dawson's recent interview with Sports Illustrated, where he stated LIV's format made equitable OWGR inclusion impossible and claimed the league has not been a success "by any measure." The hosts note Dawson has since been replaced by Trevor Immelman as OWGR chairman, while LIV has replaced Greg Norman with Scott O’Neill as CEO. They examine Dawson's specific argument that LIV's team format and structure prevent fair ranking alongside thousands of other players. In response, the hosts point to LIV's global growth, citing strong fan engagement in markets like Australia as a counter to the claim of no success. They argue several of OWGR's original objections to LIV, such as its closed system, have been addressed through new relegation and qualifying pathways. The hosts highlight that other tours with 54-hole events and no cuts, like some Korn Ferry Tour and PGA Tour events such as the RBC Heritage, already receive OWGR points. A surprising claim is that Dawson's harsh comments might indicate a personal bias, given his direct involvement in rejecting LIV's initial application. The most interesting insight is the hosts' prediction that LIV will secure OWGR points by the Masters in April, citing leadership changes as clearing the way. They propose a specific points range, suggesting a LIV event winner should earn 30-40 points, more than a typical DP World Tour event but less than a PGA Tour event. A memorable moment is the hosts' challenge to listeners to decide whether a LIV win should be worth more OWGR points than a DP World Tour victory. The tone is conversational and analytical, balancing news commentary with direct audience engagement. The style is debate-oriented, presenting multiple perspectives while advocating for a pragmatic resolution. Golf fans interested in the business and political dynamics of professional golf will love this episode. Listeners seeking only swing tips or tournament recaps might skip it.

As heard by us

A rankings fight that keeps circling back to LIV's future.

It starts with the recent criticism of LIV Golf from the former chairman of the official World Golf Rankings, then moves into what that pressure could mean for the league's future.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

If you want the official world golf rankings argument around LIV, start here.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from The Golf Podcast Presented by Golficity