LIV Golf made an application to obtain Official World Golf Ranking points earlier this year.
It is common knowledge that LIV Golf are still not recognized by the OWGR and that is causing them big problems when it comes to attracting potential new signings.
Last month, LIV announced their change to 72-hole tournaments from three-round events.
The Saudi-backed outfit believed that the switch to four-round tournaments would aid them in their quest for world ranking points.
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Numerous LIV golfers reacted excitedly about the change but, as things stand, no progress has been made regarding their application to obtain world ranking points.
It is believed that LIV not having OWGR points on offer was the main reason why they were unable to tempt Xander Schauffele into leaving the PGA Tour.
So what are the chances that the fledgling golf league will be able to offer ranking points in 2026?
Golf fans react to OWGR’s statement about LIV Golf
Trevor Immelman, Chairman of the OWGR Governing Board, said: “Since the end of June, the Governing Board has endeavoured to thoroughly evaluate the LIV Golf application.
“We remain committed to the OWGR’s mission, which requires honouring the meritocracy woven into the professional game.
“As such, discussions have been regular and remain ongoing. To be clear, progress has been made, but there is no decision to share at this time.
“We will continue to work closely with LIV Golf as it continues to evolve to ensure its application is handled with fairness, integrity and consistency, as stated previously.“
And numerous golf fans took to social media in reaction to the news, with many of them fuming at OWGR’s statement.
One fan posed the question: “Trevor Immelman being chairman and commentator for the PGA Tour. Conflict of interest?“
While many others echoed a similar sentiment.
“This is beyond dumb. Trevor Immelman, you’re awesome on TV and were a great player, but this is a ridiculous statement. You guys should not be politicians. Just give them the damn points, why delay? It’s a golf tournament with professionals on a tour that has been around, a child could make this decision. People are tired of the politics,“ one fan exclaimed.
Golf fans read between the lines after OWGR’s LIV statement
Another golf fan cryptically suggested that LIV are clearly fighting a losing battle: “All, please go on OWGR and see who is the ‘board’.“
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The comments kept coming, with fans stating: “It’s a farce!” and “Trying their hardest to find a way to say no lol. Truly embarrassing.”
Another fan fumed at the statement from the OWGR: “Nonsense. You’re a unilateral decision-maker. They should do the right thing. Everyone knows there’s world class talent on that tour. Give them points, weighted the way you think it should be weighted and end this charade. It’s clear they are trying to protect the PGA Tour.“
Meanwhile, another fan highlighted a potential conflict of interest: “A PGA Tour puppet being on the board just spells no good news for LIV.“
“This is just a farce at this point. LIV golf events should be assigned world ranking points like every other professional tour,“ another fan exclaimed.
While another chose to read between the lines, saying: “They aren’t making a decision until after the LIV season starts. If they give them OWGR guys will be more apt to move. If they don’t know guys will stay on PGA Tour.“
The fans who have commented above really do make a great point.
What chance do LIV have when the Chairman of the OWGR has such strong ties to the PGA Tour?
I’ll leave you with this question: Who has the most to lose by LIV Golf gaining recognition from the OWGR?
The answer is obvious and as things stand, it really does feel like LIV are fighting with one hand tied behind their back.