At the LIV Golf Promotions, three players earned spots for the upcoming season, including returning star Anthony Kim.
A spot in the LIV Golf League is fiercely contested. At the Promotions event at Black Diamond Ranch, 22 players competed for just three wildcards for the 2026 season. Over two final rounds covering 36 holes and under intense pressure, Richard T. Lee, Bjorn Hellgren, and Anthony Kim secured their places for the upcoming LIV Golf season, which starts on February 4 in Riyadh. In addition to the wildcards, ten other players qualified for the International Series of the Asian Tour.
Richard T. Lee Dominates LIV Golf Promotions
Canada’s 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 is the first Canadian to qualify for LIV Golf. His decision to participate was last-minute, having only registered for the event in early January. Lee, who boasts six professional wins, has recently competed on the Asian and Korean Tours and was the Asian Tour Rookie of the Year in 2013.
Hellgren Takes Big Risks and Reaps Rewards
Bjorn Hellgren faced a challenging situation 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 — to claim second place. His final round featured long drives, precise irons, and hot putting. This marks his first LIV Golf appearance in 2026. The 35-year-old holds eight professional wins, including the recent Saudi Open in December.
Anthony Kim Returns to LIV Golf on His Own Merit
Anthony Kim is no stranger to the LIV Golf stage, but this will be his third start with a notable difference. After a twelve-year hiatus, he returned in 2024 with a two-year wildcard status, which expired afterward. Now, he has earned his place outright, shooting 66 on Saturday and 69 on Sunday for third place. Smart course management and a crucial putt on the 14th hole sealed his qualification. At 40, Kim continues his comeback after a long golfing break with a secured spot in the LIV Golf calendar for 2026. “I believe in myself more than anyone else,” said Kim, and judging by his story, there’s every reason to believe him.