The 2025 season concludes with a review of pivotal decisions and moments shaping professional golf worldwide.
Although golf is often defined by tradition, 2025 saw significant changes particularly within the LIV Golf League. Several decisions indicated LIV Golf’s move closer to established tours, with changes also seen on the PGA and LPGA Tours.
LIV Golf’s Strategic and Personnel Restructuring
In January, LIV Golf appointed American Scott O’Neil as its new CEO, succeeding Greg Norman who initially planned to remain as an advisor but stepped away in September. O’Neil, a seasoned sports executive, aims to guide LIV Golf into its next phase with innovation and broader reach. He advocates a reconciliatory approach toward other golf tours and intends to explore collaborations with the Majors, the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), and the PGA Tour.
By February, R&A and USGA introduced new qualification channels for LIV golfers to compete in the Open Championship and U.S. Open. Progress toward OWGR integration was noted in April, highlighted by a meeting between O’Neil and OWGR chairman Trevor Immelman at Augusta National Golf Club — the first contact since LIV’s OWGR application was rejected, a situation that still limits LIV players’ Major access.
Implications of Penalty Cessation for DP World Tour and Ryder Cup
LIV Golf’s decision to halt penalties against DP World Tour members competing in LIV events starting in 2026 will have major repercussions. The DP World Tour rules, legally affirmed, impose sanctions on members taking part in unauthorized rival events. This year, players like Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton participated in the Ryder Cup and DP World Tour events without penalties pending appeals. From 2026, affected players must self-cover fines, possibly weakening Europe’s Ryder Cup lineup in 2027 in Ireland.
Format Revolution: LIV Golf Expands to 72 Holes in 2026
The most profound change for LIV Golf in 2025 was extending tournaments from three to four days, increasing play from 54 to 72 holes for the 2026 season. Events will typically run Thursday through Sunday, aligning with PGA and DP World Tour traditions. The three-day format was unique to LIV Golf’s concept and even reflected in its name—LIV representing the Roman numeral for 54.
Transformations on the PGA Tour and LPGA Tour
In 2025, the PGA Tour announced leadership changes with NFL executive Brian Rolapp appointed CEO, succeeding Commissioner Jay Monahan who will retire at the end of 2026. Rolapp brings expertise in media rights, marketing, and digital strategy, aiming to advance the Tour’s commercial and strategic growth through the recently established PGA Tour Enterprises.
The LPGA Tour also saw new leadership as Craig Kessler replaced Mollie Marcoux Samaa as Commissioner in May. Kessler, formerly on the LPGA Board and with experience in sports entertainment, has sparked discussions about gender representation given the LPGA’s focus.
Tomorrow Golf League Updates for Fans
The Tomorrow Golf League (TGL), co-founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy in partnership with the PGA Tour, entered its second season with a finale