LIV Golf's Unwanted Achievement in the OWGR Highlights the Inadequacy of Ranking Systems
In the world of professional golf, two ranking systems have come to the forefront of debate: the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and Data Golf. The introduction of LIV Golf, a new tour launched in June 2022, has added fuel to the fire, as the tour has yet to receive sanctioning by the world ranking board.
One of the most intriguing aspects of LIV Golf is its unique format, which combines individual and team competitions. However, this blend has caused some challenges, particularly with the cut issue. A potential solution could be to award points solely to the top finishers, but this presents its own set of difficulties, as the team aspect adds a layer of complexity.
Despite the controversy, some high-profile golfers are thriving in LIV Golf. Dustin Johnson, for instance, is ranked 119th by Data Golf, but finds himself at 612th in the OWGR. Johnson, a former world number one, has experienced a regression since leaving the PGA Tour, but his performance in LIV Golf suggests he should not be ranked so low.
Similarly, Joaquin Niemann, ranked 103rd in the world, is also ranked lower in the OWGR, at 1,874th. Talor Gooch, a four-time LIV Golf winner, faces a similar predicament, with a Data Golf ranking of 78th compared to his OWGR ranking of 1,874th.
Cameron Smith, another LIV Golf stalwart, also finds himself in a similar situation. Smith, who joined LIV Golf in 2022, is ranked 252nd in the OWGR, but Data Golf places him higher. Bryson DeChambeau, who has slipped to 21st in the OWGR, is another example of a golfer whose performance in LIV Golf may not be accurately reflected in the OWGR.
The OWGR's decision to not sanction LIV Golf has been a point of contention, with Jon Rahm, currently ranked 73rd in the world, calling it 'wrong' and 'not fair.' A new application for LIV Golf to be sanctioned by the OWGR is in motion, led by Scott O'Neil, but the identity of the new OWGR chief responsible for the new application process remains unclear.
The relegation system in LIV Golf this year has resulted in some high-profile departures, with Majesticks GC co-captain Henrik Stenson and Wild Card Anthony Kim being removed due to their placement in the relegation zone. The unique team aspect of LIV Golf, combined with the relegation system, could pose challenges for the OWGR as they consider sanctioning the tour.
As the review and approval process for LIV Golf to receive sanctioning by the OWGR progresses, it remains to be seen whether the OWGR will be able to work around the team aspect and the lack of cuts to accurately reflect the performance of LIV Golf players. The 2026 Major season could mark a significant turning point in this ongoing saga.
One potential concern is the impact of the team format on individual competition. As a golfer may opt to play a little safer coming down the stretch for their team instead of going all-out for their individual score, this could affect the overall competition. This is a complex issue that the OWGR will need to carefully consider as they decide whether to sanction LIV Golf.
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