Jon Rahm and other LIV Golf League players have struggled in the world rankings for years without OWGR points. This week, however, the Saudi-backed league was finally granted ranking points after multiple failed attempts.
The announcement marked a big step for LIV Golf but it did not come without limits. Under the new system introduced by the Official World Golf Ranking, only the top 10 finishers in LIV’s individual events will receive ranking points. Players finishing outside that group will earn nothing.
Soon after the decision was made public, LIV Golf released a statement calling the ruling unfair and unlike how other tours are treated. Now, Rahm has echoed that frustration.
Speaking after his opening round at LIV Golf Riyadh, Rahm welcomed the fact that LIV events are finally being recognised but made it clear he was unhappy with how the points are being distributed.
“Yeah it’s fantastic that we’re getting points. It’s fantastic that we’re being recognised in a way.
“With that said, I don’t like how we’re not being treated the same as every other tour. It seems like the rules that have been in place aren’t really applied to us with only 10 of us getting points. It doesn’t seem fair. There are small fields out there throughout the course of the year that get full points. Or full players get points, right? So, there’s work to be done. There’s work to be done.
“While it’s good for some people. It could cost some players to actually lose world ranking points, instead of gain them. Because finishing in 11th is basically a missed cut and we’re already adding to the devisor.
“But I’m thankful that LIV golf got their foot on the door and there’s a possibility for us to walk in the room and be recognised as as a tour, as we should be.”
Since LIV launched in 2022, its players had been unable to earn any world ranking points which caused many big names to slide down the standings. Former world No.1 Dustin Johnson has dropped outside the top 600 while Cameron Smith now sits well outside the top 200. Sergio García has also fallen deep down the rankings.
The OWGR board explained that the limited points reflect areas where LIV still does not meet its eligibility standards including field size and structure. While the new ruling gives LIV players a pathway back into the rankings, Jon Rahm’s comments show that frustration remains over what many see as unequal treatment compared to other tours.
Jon Rahm supports LIV Golf’s move to a 72-hole format
LIV Golf has introduced several changes for the 2026 season, with the biggest being a switch from its usual 54-hole format to the traditional 72-hole format. While not everyone is sold on the update, Jon Rahm is firmly in favor of it.
Speaking ahead of the season opener in Riyadh, Rahm shared that he was actually one of the players who pushed for the longer format. He believes the extra holes will raise the level of competition and make the league more exciting for fans.
“I’m happy about it. I was one of the people that pushed for it, so obviously I’m happy,” Rahm said.
“The more golf we play, the better it is for stronger teams and stronger players. I think it will benefit us four individuals and as a team as well.”
Jon Rahm also pointed to his team’s success last season as a reason for confidence heading into 2026.
“We as a team are very strong across the four. Winning the team championship last year sort of proved that. Nothing needed to change in our team. So obviously we’ve stayed the same and hopefully we can win again this season.”
After a strong 2025 season on the LIV Golf circuit, the Spaniard has shifted his focus fully to the new season. He got off to a solid start at LIV Golf Riyadh, opening with a bogey-free round of five under par to sit tied for fourth after the first round.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, hockey, golf, baseball and more!