The 2025 season is ending, reviewing pivotal decisions and moments in professional golf.
Although golf is marked by many constants, 2025 saw several profound decisions, especially within the LIV Golf League. Some LIV Golf decisions indicated a rapprochement with established tours. Changes also appeared in the PGA Tour and LPGA Tour.
LIV Golf Reinvents Itself Personnel and Strategy
In January, a leadership change at LIV Golf League was announced. American Scott O’Neil took over as CEO from Greg Norman, founder of the league in 2021, who initially planned to remain as advisor but withdrew in September. With decades of pro sports management experience, O’Neil pledged to lead LIV Golf into its next development phase, emphasizing innovation and reach. He also signaled a more conciliatory approach towards other golf leagues, envisioning future cooperation with the Majors, the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), and the PGA Tour.
In February, the R&A and USGA created new qualifying pathways for LIV golfers for the Open Championship and US Open. In April, a rapprochement towards OWGR, pivotal for Major qualifications, was visible under CEO O’Neil. O’Neil and OWGR chairman Trevor Immelman met at Augusta National Golf Club — their first contact since LIV Golf’s OWGR application was rejected, which continues to hinder LIV players’ Major participation.
Penalties: Impact on DP World Tour and Ryder Cup
LIV Golf’s decision to cease penalty payments to the DP World Tour from 2026 onwards will have significant consequences. DP World Tour rules, legally upheld, sanction members competing in rival events without approval. LIV players Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton were able to compete in this year’s Ryder Cup and DP World Tour events without penalties as exclusion rulings are under appeal. From 2026, players wishing to remain DP World Tour members and compete, such as at the Ryder Cup, must bear financial penalties themselves, potentially weakening Europe’s team for the 2027 Ryder Cup in Ireland.
Format Revolution: LIV Extends to 72 Holes from 2026
The most profound LIV Golf change was extending tournaments from three to four days for 2026. LIV events will shift from the 54-hole format to 72 holes, typically Thursday to Sunday, aligning with PGA and DP World Tour standards. Since its founding, LIV events had been three-day affairs, breaking golfing traditions and reflected in the league’s name—LIV, Roman numeral for 54.
PGA Tour in Transition: Brian Rolapp Takes the Helm
The PGA Tour announced changes during 2025, with Brian Rolapp, a top NFL executive, named CEO. Rolapp will replace long-time Commissioner Jay Monahan