Jon Rahm: LIV Golf Ranking Points Criticism

The Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR) board revealed its decision on Tuesday to award world ranking points to LIV Golf players for the first time, but with a significant restriction. Only the top 10 finishers at each LIV Golf event will receive points, a departure from the standard practice on 24 other men’s professional golf tours where all players making the cut earn points.

LIV Golf and the OWGR: A Limited Accord

This decision comes after years of contention regarding LIV Golf’s accreditation. The OWGR board stated that the limitation is due to recognizing “a number of areas where LIV Golf does not meet the eligibility standards set out by OWGR.”

Did You Know? LIV Golf events will begin receiving world ranking points in the 2026 season.

Rahm’s Reaction

Two-time major winner Jon Rahm voiced his frustration with the ruling, stating, “It doesn’t seem fair.” Speaking at LIV Golf’s season opener in Riyadh, Rahm acknowledged it was “fantastic that we’re being recognised in a way,” but added, “With that said, I don’t like how we’re not being treated the same as every other tour.”

Rahm further explained that the limited allocation of points feels inconsistent with existing standards. “It seems like the rules that have been in place don’t really apply to us, with only 10 of us getting points,” he said. “The small fields out there throughout the course of the year, their players get full points.”

Expert Insight: The OWGR’s decision reflects a compromise aimed at acknowledging LIV Golf’s presence while maintaining existing standards for tour accreditation. The limited point allocation suggests the board continues to have reservations about LIV Golf’s structure and eligibility criteria.

What Could Happen Next

The OWGR’s decision could prompt further discussion and potential negotiation between the board and LIV Golf regarding eligibility standards. LIV Golf will attempt to meet the OWGR’s requirements to earn full points for all players. Alternatively, the current system could remain in place, potentially impacting the world rankings of LIV Golf players who finish outside the top 10. A possible next step could be for LIV Golf to adjust its tournament format or qualifying criteria to align more closely with OWGR standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will LIV Golf events start awarding world ranking points?

LIV Golf events will begin receiving world ranking points in the 2026 season.

How many LIV Golf players will earn world ranking points at each event?

Only the top 10 finishers (and ties) at each LIV Golf event will earn world ranking points.

Why is the OWGR limiting points for LIV Golf events?

The OWGR board stated it was restricting points because it “recognises You’ll see a number of areas where LIV Golf does not meet the eligibility standards set out by OWGR.”

How will this limited point system affect the competitive landscape of professional golf?