Rory McIlroy has questioned LIV Golf’s decision to expand its events to 72 holes. The Northern Irishman, one of the most vocal critics of the Saudi-backed league, has described the move as “peculiar.” McIlroy says he doesn’t believe in LIV’s decision to mirror the traditional format used on the PGA Tour.
McIlroy Describes LIV Golf 72 Holes Switch As “Peculiar”
LIV Golf announced yesterday that it will play all its tournaments over four rounds instead of the current 54-hole setup starting from the 2026 season. The change marks a major shift in the league’s structure, which had built its identity around shorter, faster tournaments and a team format. LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil said the move to 72 holes marks a pivotal new chapter for LIV Golf. The change is also expected to boost the Saudi-backed league’s quest to be recognized by the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR).
Several LIV players, including Jon Rahm and Brooks Koepka, praised the decision, describing the move as a positive step that aligns the league more closely with the traditions of professional golf. However, McIlroy isn’t buying into the idea and questioned whether the format change will actually help the circuit’s Official World Golf Ranking application.
The OWGR initially rejected LIV Golf’s application for ranking points over concerns about the event being a closed shop of 54 players instead of participation being based on individual merit. Concerns were also raised about LIV Golf’s team competition potentially influencing individual performance.
Speaking ahead of this week’s Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship at Yas Links, McIlroy said: “I think it’s a peculiar move because I think they could have got ranking points with three rounds. I don’t think three rounds versus four rounds is what was holding them back.”
McIlroy Doesn’t Think LIV Golf Players Will Benefit From Ranking
McIlroy went on to add that while he understands LIV’s desire for recognition from the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) system, he doubts whether extending tournaments by 18 holes will change much.
“It certainly puts them more in line with traditional golf tournaments than what we’ve all done,” the four-time major winner added. “But if that’s what they felt they needed to do to get the ranking points, I guess that’s what they had to do… I don’t know if the ranking points are really going to benefit them as players. It will be interesting to see how it plays out.”
The Grand Slam with has been one of LIV Golf’s most vocal opponents since the league launched in 2022, often describing it as a threat to golf’s traditions and competitiveness. But McIlroy’s stance has softened slightly over time, especially after the shock merger framework announced in 2023 between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), though his skepticism toward LIV Golf remains unchanged.