Three players secured their spots for the upcoming LIV Golf 2026 season, including returning Anthony Kim.
A spot in the LIV Golf League is highly contested. At the promotions held at Black Diamond Ranch, 22 players competed for exactly three wildcards for the 2026 season. After two final rounds and 36 holes under much pressure, Richard T. Lee, Bjorn Hellgren, and Anthony Kim secured their places for the upcoming LIV Golf season, starting February 4 in Riyadh. Besides the wildcards, ten other players qualified for the International Series of the Asian Tour.
Richard T. Lee Triumphs at LIV Golf Promotions
Richard T. Lee from Canada won the LIV Golf Promotions with a total score of eleven under par, shooting rounds of 64 and 65 on the final weekend to lead comfortably. He is the first Canadian to qualify for LIV Golf. His decision to participate came shortly before, registering only in early January. Lee, who already has six professional wins, has competed in recent years on the Asian and Korean Tours and was the 2013 Asian Tour Rookie of the Year.
Hellgren Takes Big Risks and Reaps Rewards
Bjorn Hellgren had much ground to make up on Sunday, starting in 11th place. The Swede went all-in, making four birdies in the last six holes and shooting a 64, tying the course record and finishing second. On the final day, his game was characterized by long drives, accurate approaches, and hot putting. Hellgren knows how to come from behind. This marks his first appearance at LIV Golf in 2026. The 35-year-old holds eight professional victories including the recent Saudi Open in December.
Kim Returns to LIV Golf on His Own Merit
Anthony Kim is no stranger to the LIV Golf stage, but his third start in the league comes with a special meaning. After returning in 2024 following a twelve-year hiatus with two years of wildcard status, he is now back with a spot earned through his own efforts. With rounds of 66 on Saturday and 69 on Sunday, he secured third place, driven mainly by smart course management and a crucial putt on hole 14. At 40, Kim continues his comeback into professional golf with a firm spot on the 2026 LIV Golf calendar. “I believe in myself more than anyone else,” Kim said, and given his story, it is easy to believe him.