LIV Golf have announced the venue for their individual championship in September, and fans all over the world are all saying the same thing.
LIV announced on Tuesday, 30 April, that the 13th tournament of the league’s 2024 season will take place at Bolingbrook Golf Club in Chicago in the middle of September.
The course, designed by Arthur Hills and partner Steven Forrest, is situated just 30 miles downtown of Chicago. The PGA Tour has previously selected it as one of the host venues for the Forme Tour back in 2021.
Speaking on the announcement, LIV CEO Greg Norman said: “The passionate sports fans of Chicago have embraced the intense competition and fan-first experience that LIV Golf delivers, and this year, it will be an incredible setting for a high-stakes event as players battle it out for the individual title and a roster spot for 2025.
“We’re thrilled to return to Illinois with an event at Bolingbrook Golf Club as we celebrate the season-long race and set the stage for the 2024 finale.”
Golf fans view Bolingbrook in a very different way to Greg Norman
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After the news broke, golf fans were quick to research the relatively unknown venue, and the majority of them said the same thing after some underwhelming pictures emerged.
Well-known X account Flushing posted an image mocking Bolingbrook’s 15th hole.
Louisvz63 wrote: “Could it be just that LIV is taking golf to the “average” golfer? Places where regular people play?”
Danny_Darts07 highlighted the price it currently costs to pay Bolingbrook: “Lmfao LIV booking a course with green fees under $100 says it all.”
Another user, Davidinnanen said: “Doesn’t look great, there must be some other courses out there that would want this event…”
Fellow fan Mark Pfeiffer added: “Played it, but never felt like an elite course in Chicago, much less the U.S.”
Finally, this comment from Jimmilegs33 just about sums up the general feeling surrounding LIV’s selection.
He wrote: “This is hilarious. 150+mil in annual salaries for @livgolf_league, 14 events, and their championship is held at a public track no one would rank in the top 5 in the Chicagoland area.”
LIV Golf could face some criticism come September
LIV are taking a risk here. At first glance, the venue doesn’t look up to tour standards. But, as we know, Norman and Co. are attempting to make the game more appealing to a broader audience. The Bolingbrook Course may allow for an improved spectator experience, which is ultimately the Saudi-backed venture’s unique selling point.
But, considering the millions funding LIV, fans are right to question why the league can’t land a more high-profile venue for its individual championship.
If the breakaway tour truly wants to be considered the elite competition, the best venues on the planet must be used. The Grange and Sentosa Golf Club are two excellent examples.
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