The Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) has recently announced significant updates that are anticipated to have a major impact on the PGA Tour’s signature events in 2024. These updates follow the ongoing debate on whether LIV Golf should be included in the ranking system. Despite continued efforts by LIV Golf, the league has not yet been approved for OWGR points. Nonetheless, the recent changes introduced by the OWGR will have a noticeable impact on both LIV Golf and the PGA Tour.
One of the key updates disclosed by the OWGR is the implementation of a new points distribution curve for events with 80 players or fewer. This new curve will allocate a higher percentage of points to top finishers in events with smaller fields. Additionally, points will no longer be awarded to players finishing in the bottom 15 percent of events that do not have a cut. Furthermore, players who are defeated in their first-round match or lose all matches in a pool format during match play events will no longer be eligible to earn points.
It is anticipated that these updates will significantly affect the PGA Tour’s eight signature events in 2024, particularly those with fields ranging from 70-80 players. The three player-hosted invitationals will now incorporate a 36-hole cut to the top 50 and ties, as well as any player within 10 shots of the lead. Conversely, the remaining five signature events will have no cut, meaning that top finishers will earn more points, while the bottom 12 or so players in these events will not earn any points.
In addition to the new points distribution curve, the OWGR has introduced a multi-win benefit that grants a 60 percent bonus to players who secure a second victory within a 52-week period. Players who achieve three or more wins will receive a 70 percent bonus.
Official World Golf Ranking Chairman Peter Dawson confirms that these changes were made following extensive analysis subsequent to previous adjustments. The changes are intended to accurately assess the performances of players on all eligible Tours. Dawson is confident that these updates will better position the OWGR for the future.
Scheduled to take effect on Jan. 1, 2024, these changes are expected to significantly impact the professional golf landscape. It remains to be seen how players and tours will adapt to these updates and how they will ultimately shape the future of the sport. With these changes, the world of professional golf is poised for exciting developments in the years to come.