Three players secure spots for the 2026 LIV Golf season, including returning star Anthony Kim.
A spot in the LIV Golf League is fiercely contested. At the Promotions held at Black Diamond Ranch, 22 players competed for just three wildcards for the 2026 season. After two final rounds and 36 holes under pressure, Richard T. Lee, Bjorn Hellgren, and Anthony Kim clinched their places for the upcoming LIV Golf season starting February 4 in Riyadh. In addition to the wildcards, ten other players qualified for the Asian Tour’s International Series.
Richard T. Lee Shines at LIV Golf Promotions
Canadian Richard T. Lee won the LIV Golf Promotions with a total score of eleven under par, shooting rounds of 64 and 65 on the final weekend to take a clear lead. He became the first Canadian to qualify for LIV Golf. Lee’s decision to participate came at short notice, as he registered in early January. The six-time professional winner has played on the Asian and Korean Tours and was named Rookie of the Year on the Asian Tour in 2013.
Hellgren’s High-Risk Strategy Pays Off
Swede Bjorn Hellgren was in 11th place on Sunday with much ground to make up. Taking a bold approach, he made four birdies over the last six holes, shot a 64 tying the course record, and secured second place. Hellgren excelled with long drives, precision approach shots, and hot putting. He will make his LIV Golf debut in 2026, bringing eight professional wins, including the Saudi Open in December.
Anthony Kim Returns to LIV Golf on His Own Merit
Anthony Kim, familiar with the LIV Golf stage, makes his third league start with a significant difference. After returning from a twelve-year hiatus in 2024 with a two-year wildcard status, he has now earned his spot outright. With a 66 on Saturday and a 69 on Sunday, Kim finished third, relying on smart course management and a crucial putt on hole 14. At 40, he continues his comeback with a permanent place in the LIV Golf schedule. “I believe in myself more than anyone else,” Kim said, and given his history, it’s easy to believe him.