The Golf Podcast Presented by Golficity · Golficity

LIV Moves to 72 Hole Format...But WHY?!

·26 min·2 clips

LIV Golf just shocked fans by switching to 72-hole events—is this a desperate move or a strategic power play?

This episode analyzes LIV Golf's sudden announcement to shift from a 54-hole to a 72-hole tournament format starting in 2026. Hosts Mike and Adam from Golficity examine whether this is a strategic move to secure Official World Golf Ranking points. They explore if the change signals strength through adaptation or weakness by abandoning a core identity. The hosts reference LIV's new CEO, Scott O’Neill, who framed the shift as a pivotal chapter to strengthen competition and meet global audience demand. Player reactions from Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau are cited, with both praising the move for enhancing competitiveness and aligning with traditional golf. A key argument is that adding a fourth round could boost revenue through extra ticket sales, broadcast ads, and sponsor appeal. The discussion notes that shotgun starts will remain, preserving some unique LIV identity. An interesting insight is the hosts' prediction that OWGR approval is now inevitable, potentially arriving before the Masters. They debate if the swift change, with unupdated schedules on LIV's website, indicates behind-the-scenes urgency for rankings. The conversation highlights a contradiction where players initially joined for a lighter schedule but now endorse a more demanding format. A surprising claim is that Dustin Johnson's recent re-signing hinted at this major format shift. The hosts present the perspective that, as a startup, LIV's pivot shows smart adaptability to achieve player goals like major qualifications. Conversely, they acknowledge critics who see conforming to a traditional format as abandoning what made LIV distinct. Analyst Dan Rapaport's point is discussed: LIV and the PGA Tour now look increasingly similar with limited fields, big purses, and 72 holes. This raises the question of why golf remains divided if the leagues converge. The tone is conversational and analytical, balancing business and fan perspectives without taking a firm side. The style is educational, breaking down announcements, quotes, and potential implications for the sport's landscape. Golf fans following the LIV-PGA Tour rivalry and business dynamics would find this episode engaging. Listeners seeking deep analysis of golf's structural changes and future would appreciate it. Those uninterested in professional golf's administrative and format debates might skip it.

As heard by us

A blunt look at LIV's 72-hole pivot and the motives behind it.

LIV's move to 72-hole events stays at the center of the discussion, and the episode keeps its focus on what that shift might mean for the league. It weighs the case for OWGR access, then turns to the broader question of whether the change reads as confidence or as pressure.

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Want the LIV change that has golf fans arguing from every angle?

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