The 2025 season ends with pivotal decisions and moments that shaped professional golf worldwide.
Although golf is often marked by many constants, 2025 saw some profound decisions, especially within the LIV Golf League. Some of LIV Golf’s decisions indicated rapprochement with established tours, alongside changes seen in the PGA Tour and the LPGA Tour.
LIV Golf’s Strategic and Leadership Changes
In January, the LIV Golf League leadership shifted as American Scott O’Neil took over as CEO from Greg Norman, who initially stayed as an advisor before withdrawing in September. O’Neil, with decades of pro sports experience, aims to advance LIV Golf into its next phase by combining innovation with expanded reach. He advocates for a more conciliatory approach toward other golf leagues and is open to future collaborations 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 golfers to enter the Open Championship and the US Open. A movement toward alignment with the OWGR, which largely dictates major qualifications, also surfaced under CEO O’Neil in April. Notably, O’Neil and OWGR Chairman Trevor Immelman met at Augusta National Golf Club, marking the first engagement since LIV Golf’s OWGR application was denied, which continues to disadvantage LIV players in major participation.
Impactful Rule Changes Affecting DP World Tour and Ryder Cup
LIV Golf announced it will discontinue fines against DP World Tour players competing without permissions starting in 2026, which has significant implications. The DP World Tour rulebook and courts uphold penalties for members playing unauthorized competing events. Players like Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton competed this year without penalties at the Ryder Cup and DP World Tour events, as appeals are pending. However, from 2026 onward, players wishing to remain DP World Tour members—and thus eligible for Ryder Cup—will bear fines themselves, potentially weakening the European team in Ireland 2027.
LIV Golf Expands to 72-Hole Format for 2026
The most significant change in LIV Golf this year was extending tournaments from three to four days starting in the 2026 season, shifting from a 54-hole to a 72-hole format. This adjustment aligns LIV events with the typical Thursday-to-Sunday schedule of the PGA and DP World Tours. Since its founding, LIV Golf tournaments were three-day events, a break from tradition reflected even in its name, LIV (Roman numeral for 54).
PGA Tour Leadership and Structural Changes
The PGA Tour also announced changes in 2025, appointing Brian Rol