LIV Golf Open to 72-Hole Events as Jon Rahm Advocates for Traditional Format

LIV Golf chief Greg Norman has indicated that the organization is open to hosting 72-hole events, following comments from new recruit Jon Rahm advocating for the traditional format to build fan trust and align with global golf standards. Discussions are ongoing within LIV about potentially making the change from the current 54-hole format.

Rahm, who recently signed a lucrative deal with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf tour, believes that switching to 72-hole tournaments could help improve the perception of LIV and encourage more fans to accept the breakaway league. "I think it could help the product in general if people saw a 72-hole event. That's what we do. That's what people are used to seeing," Rahm stated.

Norman acknowledged that there are economic considerations involved in extending LIV events to 72 holes, particularly around the impact on television coverage. However, he emphasized that LIV is "very open-minded" about the idea and will continue to have discussions on finding the optimal format to make the events better.

Rahm used the analogy of global football leagues following the same rules to rationalize why a 72-hole format would be beneficial for LIV Golf. He noted that the key difference in golf is the number of holes played and suggested that aligning LIV with the traditional standard could help unify the men's professional game.

Why this matters: The potential shift to a 72-hole format marks a significant change for LIV Golf, which has built its brand around the shorter 54-hole tournaments. The move could help LIV gain recognition from the Official World Golf Rankings and progress in its ongoing partnership agreement with the PGA Tour.

Despite his preference for a 72-hole format, Rahm acknowledged that the ultimate decision depends on what works best financially for LIV's leadership. "It's not up to me. I'm just a player. I provide my opinion and the feedback that I believe is correct, but in the end, I'm just an employee," Rahm conceded. The Spanish golfer also expressed a desire to continue playing certain PGA Tour events, such as the Players Championship, if his LIV schedule allows and an agreement is reached between the two tours.

Key Takeaways

• LIV Golf open to 72-hole events, following Rahm's advocacy for traditional format.
• Rahm believes 72-hole events could improve LIV's perception and fan trust.
• Norman acknowledges economic considerations but says LIV is "very open-minded" about change.
• Shift to 72-hole format could help LIV gain OWGR recognition and PGA Tour partnership.
• Rahm wants to continue playing PGA Tour events if LIV schedule allows and agreement reached.