How breakaway league LIV Golf is strategically reshaping golf’s global power structure

LIV Golf may be closer than ever to securing Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) status, as renewed discussions with the OWGR Board signal a potential breakthrough in a saga that has divided the sport since 2022.

After months of silence, momentum appears to be building again. The league’s controversial application for OWGR recognition—originally denied in October 2022 due to the strict eligibility criteria long upheld by established tours—was seemingly put to rest when then-CEO Greg Norman announced its withdrawal in March 2024.

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Norman’s parting message was a bold one: the best players in the world deserve to compete together on the biggest stages. Now, under new leadership, that message might find more receptive ears.

Scott O’Neil, LIV Golf’s new CEO, has been in quiet talks with Trevor Immelman, recently appointed head of the OWGR, during and around The Masters. Although no new application has been formally submitted, the tone of dialogue has shifted. And that in itself may hint at change.

Fresh leadership often brings fresh perspectives—and perhaps even overdue reconciliation. Since LIV Golf’s inception, the OWGR system has faced mounting criticism for excluding top-tier talent from its calculations. The result? A skewed ranking that omits some of the game's most electrifying names.

Just look at Jon Rahm, one of LIV’s marquee signings, now sitting at 73rd in the OWGR despite his elite status. Bryson DeChambeau (12th) and Tyrrell Hatton (18th) are currently the highest-ranked LIV players—yet their placements feel disconnected from their actual performance levels.

While some Major tournaments have revised their invitation policies to allow select LIV players into the fold, it’s not enough. Rising stars, like Dubai-based Adrian Meronk of the Cleeks GC, face an uncertain future. Despite playing in all four Majors in 2024, he could miss out entirely in 2025.

Younger LIV pros still dream of Major glory—but without OWGR points, their pathways remain obstructed.

O’Neil has made it clear: one of his top priorities is to rebuild bridges with golf’s governing bodies. That mission is not just political—it’s existential. The sport’s global integrity depends on it.

Perhaps it’s time to take stock—PGA Tour, LIV Golf, OWGR—what’s working, what’s not, and how to fix it. For the sake of golf’s future—and its fans—it’s time to make this work.