March 05, (THEWILL) – In a significant development, the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League has withdrawn its application for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points. The decision, announced by LIV Golf commissioner, Greg Norman, in a letter to players on Tuesday, brings an end to the circuit’s efforts that commenced in July 2022 to secure recognition from the esteemed ranking system.
Norman conveyed to the players that the path forward for LIV Golf and its golfers lies beyond the current ranking framework. “It’s now clear that the best way forward for LIV as a league and you as LIV golfers is not through the current ranking system,” he stated. Norman cited the absence of a resolution that could “protect the accuracy, credibility and integrity of the OWGR rankings” as the primary reason behind the withdrawal.
The OWGR, whose points structure determines invitations and exemptions into golf’s four major championships, had denied LIV Golf’s bid last October. Concerns raised included limited avenues for players to join LIV, lack of turnover among participants, and the unique format combining individual and team competition.
While LIV Golf implemented changes to address these issues, Norman lamented the “little willingness” shown by the OWGR to “productively work with us.” Consequently, LIV Golf players have been unable to accumulate points from the circuit’s 54-hole events, causing many high-profile defectors from the US PGA Tour to slide down the rankings.
Currently, only four LIV golfers feature in this week’s world rankings top 50, led by third-ranked Jon Rahm of Spain. Norman asserted that the ranking system is “structured to penalise” those not playing regularly on eligible tours, making it “functionally impossible” for LIV players to reclaim their rightful positions near the summit.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
Jude Obafemi, THEWILLhttps://thewillnews.com
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
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