LIV CEO Contemplates 72-Hole Format Change Impact on Golf
LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman considers transitioning from a 54-hole to a 72-hole format, sparking discussions on impact, television coverage, and uniting tours. Players like Jon Rahm weigh in on the potential changes and the business implications.
In a move that could reshape the future of professional golf, LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman has expressed openness to the idea of transitioning to a traditional 72-hole format. The Saudi-backed circuit has thus far been known for its 54-hole, no-cut events, but Norman acknowledged that the potential impact of adding an extra round is being carefully evaluated.
During a press conference ahead of LIV’s event in Adelaide, Norman stated, “It’s a great conversation to have. We will continue to have that conversation going forward. But we sit back and say, what value do we get on putting on television on Thursday. How do we build out in the future?”
The comments come after former Masters and US Open champion Jon Rahm, who joined LIV from the PGA Tour in December, expressed his hope that the rebel circuit would move to a 72-hole format, believing it could help unite the tours.
Norman, however, cautioned that the decision would need to consider the “economic impact” of extending television coverage. “There are things that we sit back and look at to see what is the most optimal solution to make this a better and better and better event, and 72 holes is discussed.”
Rahm, speaking alongside Norman, acknowledged the “level of comfort” in playing 72 holes but emphasized that any format change must make business sense. “If it doesn’t fit the product, it doesn’t fit the product,” he said.
The potential shift in LIV’s format comes amidst ongoing tensions between the new circuit and the established PGA Tour. Norman also dismissed a report that suggested an $850 million offer had been made to Rory McIlroy, calling it “typical white noise that gets out there in the industry.”
As the golf world watches closely, the conversation around LIV’s format continues to evolve, with both players and executives weighing the pros and cons of a potential 72-hole format.
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