With just one event remaining in the 2024 LIV Golf season, the battle intensifies for players teetering near the bottom of the individual rankings. Players who finish 49th or lower are placed in the “Drop Zone,” meaning they’ll have to compete in the LIV Golf Promotions to secure a spot for the next season. While captains and contracted players are safe from relegation, many others are fighting to stay on the tour.
Team Captains in Safe Territory
Captains like Bubba Watson and Martin Kaymer are immune to relegation due to their leadership roles, but for some of their teammates, the situation is far more precarious. Watson currently sits in 52nd place, but his captain status shields him from any consequences. Similarly, Kaymer, who leads Cleeks GC, is safe despite finishing last season in the “Drop Zone.” For other players, however, the final event could decide their future on the tour.
Varner and Perez: On the Edge
Harold Varner III (47th) and Pat Perez (48th) are two notable names hovering near the relegation line. Both players need strong showings in the final event, LIV Golf Chicago, to avoid falling into the “Drop Zone.” Varner, who finished 7th in last year’s standings, is particularly feeling the pressure after an unexpectedly poor 2024 season.
Vincent, Grace, and Canter: Last-Ditch Effort
Scott Vincent (49th) has managed to stay just above the relegation line, with top-25 finishes in the last four tournaments, but he needs another solid performance to secure his place. Meanwhile, Branden Grace (50th) and Laurie Canter (51st) are in similarly precarious positions. Grace has had an inconsistent season, mixing high points with disappointing results, while Canter’s limited schedule — just two events — has left him little opportunity to climb higher in the rankings.
Players at the Bottom
At the lower end of the rankings, Kalle Samooja (53rd) and Kieran Vincent (54th) are in serious jeopardy. Both players entered the league via the 2023 Promotions but have struggled this season. Samooja is firmly in the “Drop Zone,” while Vincent, with only 2.47 points and just one top-20 finish this season, has also been unable to escape the bottom of the leaderboard.