The 2025 season concludes with a review of the most groundbreaking decisions and moments in professional golf.
Although golf is often marked by many constants, 2025 brought significant decisions particularly within the LIV Golf League. Several LIV Golf decisions indicated a rapprochement with established tours. Changes were also apparent across the PGA Tour and the LPGA Tour.
LIV Golf Reshapes Leadership and Strategy
January saw a leadership change in the LIV Golf League with American Scott O’Neil taking over as CEO from Greg Norman, who initially intended to remain as an advisor but withdrew entirely in September. With decades of professional sports experience, O’Neil aims to lead LIV Golf into a new phase focusing on innovation and expanded reach. He advocates for a more cooperative approach with other golf leagues and is open to partnerships with the majors, the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), and the PGA Tour.
In February, the R&A and USGA introduced new qualification pathways for LIV players for the Open Championship and the US Open. By April, signs of rapprochement toward OWGR, which significantly influences major qualifications, were evident under O’Neil’s leadership. O’Neil and OWGR chairman Trevor Immelman were seen meeting at the Augusta National Golf Club—the first engagement since LIV Golf’s rejected OWGR application, which still hinders LIV players’ access to majors.
Major Format and Strategic Shifts in LIV Golf and PGA Tour
An impactful LIV Golf decision was the extension of its tournament format from three to four days starting in 2026, changing from a 54-hole to a 72-hole structure, aligning with PGA and DP World Tour traditions. This alteration also shifts tournaments to a Thursday-Sunday schedule. LIV Golf originally sought to challenge golf traditions, even reflected in its name ‘LIV’ meaning 54 in Roman numerals.
The PGA Tour also announced changes during 2025, appointing Brian Rolapp—a seasoned NFL executive—as its new CEO, set to succeed commissioner Jay Monahan by end of 2026. This restructuring positions the CEO as the Tour’s top authority, with Rolapp leading PGA Tour Enterprises, a branch generating additional revenue. Rolapp’s expertise in media rights, marketing, and digital strategy marks a modernization step for the Tour.
Updates in LPGA and Innovative Tomorrow Golf League
The LPGA Tour named Craig Kessler as its new commissioner in May, succeeding Mollie Marcoux Samaa. Kessler, known for his experience at Topgolf and a prior board member of the LPGA, brings extensive sports and entertainment management skills. His appointment sparked debate about gender representation in leading roles within women’s golf.
The Tomorrow Golf League (TGL), founded by Tiger Woods,