Three players secure spots for the upcoming LIV Golf 2026 season, including the return of Anthony Kim.
A spot in the LIV Golf League is fiercely contested. At the Promotions event held at Black Diamond Ranch, 22 players competed for three wildcards for the 2026 season. Over two final rounds, 36 holes, under intense pressure, Richard T. Lee, Bjorn Hellgren, and Anthony Kim secured 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. With rounds of 64 and 65 on the final weekend, he pulled ahead decisively. He is the first Canadian to qualify for LIV Golf. His decision to participate was made at short notice as he registered only in early January. Lee, who has six professional wins, has competed 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 a lot to make up on Sunday, starting from 11th place. However, the Swede went all in: four birdies in the last six holes, a round of 64 — a shared course record — earned him second place. His game on the final day was long off the tee, accurate on approach, and hot with the putter. Hellgren knows how to climb the leaderboard from behind, marking his first LIV Golf season in 2026. The 35-year-old boasts eight professional wins, including the Saudi Open last December.
Anthony Kim Returns to LIV Golf on His Own Merit
Anthony Kim is no stranger to the LIV Golf stage, but his third appearance in the league comes with a special note. After returning in 2024 following a twelve-year hiatus with two years of wildcard status, he is now back with a spot earned through performance. With rounds of 66 and 69 on Saturday and Sunday, respectively, he secured third place, thanks to smart course management and a crucial putt on the 14th hole. At 40, Kim continues his journey after a twelve-year golf break with a permanent place in the 2026 LIV Golf schedule. \”I believe in myself more than anyone else,\” Kim said. Given his story, that claim is easy to believe.
“I’m not here to prove everybody wrong, I’m here to prove myself right” – @AnthonyKim_Golf