LIV Golf aims to pacify OWGR by making a major change to The International Series – Report
This week, several LIV Golf athletes, including Martin Kaymer, Peter Uihlein, and David Puig, competed in the LINK Hong Kong Open. This tournament is part of the International Series, a collection of LIV Golf Investments-backed events on the Asian Tour.
Since 2022, LIV Golf has provided a pathway for players to earn a place on the breakaway tour. These elevated events offer season-long ranking points, with the top player receiving direct entry into the Saudi PIF-backed golf league.
### Potential Changes in the International Series and OWGR Inclusion
According to recent reports, fans may soon witness significant changes in the International Series as LIV Golf aims for inclusion in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR). The Saudi PIF-backed golf circuit is expected to provide two qualifying spots for the International Series.
If these reports hold true, the two highest-ranked, non-contracted players on the International Series Rankings would earn direct entry into the 2026 LIV season. Additionally, LIV’s Promotion Event, scheduled for January and possibly hosted in Tampa Bay, is also expected to feature at least two qualifying spots.
A recent X post (formerly Twitter) by Flushing It Golf highlighted these potential steps the Saudi-backed circuit might take after reapplying for OWGR inclusion in June 2025. On July 11, OWGR officially confirmed receiving LIV’s application and announced the commencement of the review process.
LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil expressed confidence in the breakaway tour’s growing appeal, despite the challenges faced.
### Criticism from Former OWGR Chairman Peter Dawson
When LIV Golf’s initial application was rejected in 2023, then-OWGR Chairman Peter Dawson voiced strong criticism. While he acknowledged the talent of the players, he stated that the format of LIV Golf made OWGR inclusion “impossible.”
Following LIV’s recent reapplication, Dawson once again expressed skepticism. Speaking to Global Golf Post, as quoted by Sports Illustrated, he said:
> “LIV has now reapplied to be included in the OWGR system. I want all golf initiatives to do well and I can’t see that LIV has been a success by any measure. Yes, it has given great wealth to a very few people, but in terms of engagement, its format of team golf isn’t resonating anywhere near enough with the fan base.”
Dawson did not hold back when responding to Scott O’Neil’s claim that LIV is poised to become a dominant name in “global golf.” He criticized both Saudi Arabia and the Public Investment Fund for their persistent efforts to push the breakaway tour’s success.
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As LIV Golf continues to seek greater recognition and integration within the established golf world, the outcomes of their OWGR application and proposed changes to the International Series will be closely watched by fans and industry stakeholders alike.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/golf/news-liv-golf-aims-pacify-owgr-making-major-change-the-international-series-report
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