Image Credit: SuperSport
Rory McIlroy’s comments about LIV Golf’s decision to shift from 54 to 72 holes next season have sparked a fresh wave of debate in the golf world. Speaking ahead of the Abu Dhabi Championship, McIlroy described the move as “peculiar,” suggesting that the league could have secured world ranking points without changing its format.
“I think it’s a peculiar move because I think they could have got ranking points with three rounds,” McIlroy said. “I don’t think three rounds versus four rounds is what was holding them back.”
Westwood fires back
Veteran English golfer Lee Westwood, a prominent LIV Golf player, quickly hit back at McIlroy’s remarks during an appearance on the TalkSport Breakfast Show.
“I don’t know. I don’t pay too much attention to what Rory says,” Westwood said. “He’ll change his mind for next week.”
Westwood, who has been one of the most vocal defenders of the LIV setup, took a more positive view of the league’s format change. He said the shift to 72 holes benefits players, sponsors, and fans alike.
“Good for everyone involved”
“I think it was good for the players, good for the sponsors, and good for the fans more than anything,” Westwood said. “They get to see another day’s golf.”
He also noted that the move aligns LIV Golf more closely with major championship standards, giving players a better rhythm when competing across multiple tours.
“Some of the guys focused their whole season around the major championships,” he explained. “Playing 54 holes was putting them at a bit of a disadvantage.”
The pursuit of world ranking points
Westwood acknowledged that the pursuit of Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points was likely a factor behind LIV’s decision.
“I think they wanted to play 72 holes because it represents more of the major championship format,” he said. “World rankings are definitely one of the things on LIV’s mind. There have been 54-hole tournaments that got world ranking points before, but ticking all the boxes for the OWGR might be easier with 72 holes.”
Looking ahead to 2026
LIV Golf’s new season is set to begin in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in February 2026. The move to a traditional 72-hole format will mark a significant shift in the league’s approach as it continues to seek legitimacy within the broader golf world.
