One of the reasons some PGA Tour players have for not being tempted by the opportunity to jump to LIV Golf is the fact that the league has never received world ranking points.
Despite previously applying for world ranking points, LIV Golf events continue to go unrecognised by the OWGR. That means that their players only receive points when they play on the likes of the DP World Tour, the Asian Tour or in the majors.
LIV events take place over 54 holes, while there is also a team format which takes place alongside the individual tournament.
Of course, that has led to some very strange rankings in recent years. No-one can truly believe that Jon Rahm is only the 73rd best male player on the planet.
But it did seem that a big change was on the cards.
Trevor Immelman responds to reports LIV Golf are closing in on agreeing deal to receive world ranking points
Reports in recent days claimed that LIV Golf were closing on in reaching an agreement with officials from the OWGR which would see their events finally receive points.
But it seems that those claims may have been a little premature. Speaking to the Associated Press, OWGR chairman Trevor Immelman suggested that LIV have plenty of work to do before a change takes place.
“They have not put any application in. Whether that happens or not, I guess time will tell,” he said.
“I have enjoyed getting to know Scott O’Neil over the last few months. We’ve spoken on the phone a couple of times. We met in person at the Masters, just really introduction stuff. We’re in the same position we have been without any application from their side.”
LIV Golf is still fighting for credibility amid worrying ratings
It could be a huge boost for LIV if they do start to receive world ranking points for their events. They have already received a lift with more pathways opening up to the major championships.
But there are plenty of problems for LIV to still address. LIV Golf Mexico City received extremely poor television ratings, and that was despite it competing with a fairly underwhelming event on the PGA Tour.
They have a number of superstar names, but depth is a real problem. And they have not exactly explained the farcical situation which saw Branden Grace relegated last year before retaining his place for this season. It was quite clear that Stinger never had any intention of replacing Grace, despite the point being that the decision seemingly should have been taken out of their hands.
LIV is too much of a closed shop, and it does not appear to have done the golfing landscape many favours. So it will be interesting to see what will have changed if they do indeed end up receiving world ranking points.
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