The 2025 season draws to a close, reflecting on groundbreaking decisions and moments in professional golf.
While golf is known for its traditions, 2025 brought significant changes, notably within the LIV Golf League. Decisions there hinted at closer ties with established tours, alongside developments on the PGA and LPGA Tours.
LIV Golf: New Leadership and Strategic Direction
In January, Scott O’Neil took over as CEO of the LIV Golf League from Greg Norman, who initially remained as advisor but stepped down in September. With decades of sports management experience, O’Neil aims to guide LIV Golf into its next phase with innovation and broader reach, seeking cooperation with the Majors, the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), and the PGA Tour.
In February, R&A and USGA introduced qualifying options for LIV players for the Open Championship and the US Open. This marked a step towards OWGR integration, further evidenced in April by a meeting between O’Neil and OWGR chairman Trevor Immelman at Augusta National Golf Club—the first since LIV’s OWGR application was declined, which still limits LIV players’ entry to majors.
DP World Tour Penalties and Ryder Cup Implications
LIV Golf’s decision to cease penalty payments to the DP World Tour starting in 2026 could have significant repercussions. DP World Tour rules—and court rulings—penalize members who compete in rival events without approval. LIV players like Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton participated in the Ryder Cup and DP World Tour this year without penalties as appeals are ongoing. Future financial penalties may force players to choose between DP World Tour membership and rival events, potentially weakening Europe’s Ryder Cup team in 2027.
Another major change is LIV Golf’s expansion from 54-hole to 72-hole tournaments in 2026, aligning with formats on the PGA and DP World Tours. Previously, LIV events spanned three days to break golf traditions, reflected in its name ‘LIV’ (54 in Roman numerals).
PGA and LPGA Tour Leadership Changes
The PGA Tour saw leadership changes as Brian Rolapp, a top NFL executive, was named CEO, replacing longtime Commissioner Jay Monahan who plans to step down at the end of 2026. Rolapp brings expertise in media rights, marketing, and digital strategy, critical for the tour’s future growth.
Similarly, the LPGA Tour appointed Craig Kessler, previously of Topgolf, as its new Commissioner in May. His appointment sparked debate about gender representation, as he replaced Mollie Marcoux Samaa