LIV Golf is not currently on track to receive Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points, as the league has not submitted a new application, according to OWGR chairman Trevor Immelman.
Speaking in a recent interview, Immelman, who assumed the role just three weeks ago, confirmed he has spoken with LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil both by phone and in person at the Masters, but emphasized that no formal steps have been taken. “They have not put any application in,” he said. “Whether that happens or not, time will tell. The ball is in their court.”
Earlier this week, Sportico reported that LIV Golf and OWGR were in “serious discussions,” a characterization Immelman found surprising. “It’s an interesting choice of words,” he remarked.
LIV Golf’s previous application was rejected in October 2023, with OWGR citing concerns about competitive fairness and the league’s team-based format potentially skewing individual rankings. The league withdrew that application in May 2024.
Currently, LIV Golf features 54 players across 13 teams, plus two wild cards. The roster is mostly fixed throughout the season, except for injury replacements. A “promotions” event at the end of 2023 allowed one player to earn a spot, down from three the previous year. Additionally, the leading player from the Asian Tour’s International Series may qualify, provided they aren’t already part of LIV.
Scott O’Neil took over from Greg Norman as LIV’s CEO earlier this year. Though some speculated that a new application might be underway, Immelman said there’s been no indication so far. “Our process is not to go chasing tours,” he explained. “We have an open-door policy. Whoever wants to apply is more than welcome.”
The four major golf tournaments use OWGR points to help determine entry. In light of LIV’s ongoing exclusion, some majors have created alternate paths. For instance, Joaquin Niemann earned a U.S. Open spot through a new qualification category. The Masters has continued to rely on special invitations to build its field.
Immelman noted that the reasons for the 2023 denial still stand. “The letter from former chairman Peter Dawson was quite clear. I would say that is still the case,” he said. “Until a new application is submitted, there’s nothing we can do.”
Despite the current impasse, Immelman expressed optimism about his interactions with O’Neil, describing him as “a very smart guy who understands the business world in sport,” while acknowledging that O’Neil is still learning the nuances of professional golf. “I’m sure he’ll catch on quickly,” Immelman added.
