By Kevin Rademeyer, Sports Journalist.
Two-time major champion Jon Rahm has welcomed LIV Golf’s long-awaited recognition by the Official World Golf Rankings, but believes the terms attached to the decision fall short of fair treatment.
Earlier this week, the OWGR board confirmed that players on the Saudi backed LIV circuit will, for the first time, be eligible to earn world ranking points. However, only the top 10 finishers at each event will receive points, a condition that does not apply to any of the other 24 men’s professional tours recognised by the ranking body, where all players who make the cut are rewarded.
The OWGR explained that the restriction reflects areas where LIV does not meet its eligibility standards, citing smaller average field sizes and the tour’s recruitment-based model rather than traditional qualification pathways.
Speaking at LIV’s season opening event in Riyadh, Rahm described the announcement as a step forward, but one that leaves lingering concerns. “It’s fantastic that we’re being recognised in a way,” the Spaniard said. “With that said, I don’t like how we’re not being treated the same as every other tour. It seems like the rules that have been in place don’t really apply to us, with only 10 of us getting points. It doesn’t seem fair.”
Rahm also warned that the ruling could have unintended consequences for players finishing just outside the top 10. “While it’s good for some people, it could cause some players to actually lose world ranking points instead of gaining them because finishing 11th is basically a missed cut, and we’re already adding to the divisor,” he said. “But I’m thankful that LIV Golf got their foot in the door. There’s now a possibility for us to be recognised as a tour, as we should be.”
The OWGR has pointed to LIV’ average field size of 57 players this season, well below the minimum requirement of 75, as well as concerns around player selection. LIV, in response, has labelled the decision unprecedented, arguing that an 11th place finish at one of its events would be treated the same as finishing last.
The circuit has also highlighted other limited field events that still award ranking points to all participants, including the Hero World Challenge and the PGA Tour’s season ending play offs, as well as the DP World Tour Championship.
On the course in Riyadh, competition has been fierce. Belgian newcomer Thomas Detry made an immediate impression on his LIV debut, firing a bogey free seven under par 65 to share the first round lead with Peter Uihlein. Detry admitted to nerves on his opening day but looked composed throughout at Riyadh Golf Club.
Rahm, along with England’s Tyrell Hatton, sits in a group tied for fourth after the opening round, while Australia’s Elvis Smylie is one stroke off the pace. Bryson DeChambeau and Sergio Garcia are also in contention at four under par. The tournament is also notable for LIV’s shift from its traditional 54-hole format to a full 72-hole event.
As the debate around world ranking points continues, attention will soon turn to LIV Golf’s growing global footprint. South African fans will get their chance to see the stars up close when the tour heads to South Africa in March, an event that is expected to draw significant interest as the circuit continues to push for broader acceptance within the game.