In a significant development ahead of the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague has issued a direct message to LIV Golf, urging the Saudi-backed league to submit a new application for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points. This move is seen as a potential step toward reintegrating LIV players into the global golf ecosystem.
Sprague’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about the inclusion of LIV Golf players in major tournaments. He emphasized that the PGA of America’s primary goal is to assemble the strongest field possible for its championships, stating, “It’s a worldwide field. That’s why we feel it’s the strongest field in golf because of that process where we look at all the different tours and try and include and invite those best players” .
The inclusion of 16 LIV golfers in this year’s PGA Championship field, including notable names like Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau, and Jon Rahm, underscores the organization’s commitment to fielding top talent regardless of tour affiliation .
However, the path to OWGR recognition for LIV Golf remains uncertain. While rumors suggested that LIV was in advanced talks with the governing body to secure points, newly-appointed OWGR chairman Trevor Immelman clarified that no formal agreement has been reached. Immelman did confirm meetings with LIV’s CEO Scott O’Neil at Augusta National, indicating ongoing dialogue .
Sprague’s call for a new application reflects a broader desire within the golf community to unify the sport’s fragmented landscape. As discussions continue, the potential for LIV Golf to gain OWGR points could pave the way for greater integration and competition among the world’s best players.
The PGA of America’s stance contrasts with that of the USGA, which has established a direct qualification route for LIV players into the U.S. Open, signaling varying approaches among golf’s governing bodies .
As the golf world watches closely, the coming months will be critical in determining whether LIV Golf can achieve the recognition it seeks and how that will impact the broader dynamics of professional golf.
