LIV Golf bosses say changes are coming. Here's what that looks like
Ahead of its fifth season, LIV Golf executives outlined a series of adjustments framed as both an "evolution" and a "remaking" of the league during a season preview on Wednesday. The changes aim to bolster competitiveness, secure Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points, and enhance the fan experience, even as the circuit contends with the departure of star Brooks Koepka to the PGA Tour.
A central focus remains the pursuit of OWGR recognition. CEO Scott O’Neil revealed plans to expand the season-ending "Lock Zone" for secured players and the "Drop Zone" for relegation, a structural shift intended to strengthen LIV's application for world ranking points. "We think there’s some things, some shifts you’ll see in ’26 that I think help our case," O’Neil stated, noting ongoing dialogue with OWGR chairman Trevor Immelman.
Other key developments announced include:
Broadcast Overhaul: A "complete makeover" of the television production, designed to clearly separate the individual and team competitions with a "color-coded" broadcast to simplify the viewing experience.
Increased Purses: Tournament prize money will rise to $30 million per event, with $22 million allocated to the individual competition.
"National Open" Strategy: A long-term plan to align the Asian Tour's International Series with 10-12 major national opens worldwide to boost global viewership and potentially create more pathways into majors.
New Sponsorship: An imminent announcement of an "elite" timepiece brand as a new global partner.
Team Rebranding: Three teams have undergone name or image changes to better reflect regional identities and cultures.
The league also confirmed ongoing discussions with the DP World Tour regarding player access, a critical issue for LIV members like Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton who face fines and suspensions for playing in unsanctioned events. Rule changes developed in consultation with the USGA and R&A are also expected.
When asked about Koepka's high-profile return to the PGA Tour, executives did not provide a direct reaction, keeping the focus on LIV's internal progression. The cumulative changes signal a league striving for greater legitimacy and stability while navigating a complex and polarized golf ecosystem.
