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As the 2024 LIV Golf regular season concludes, several players find themselves facing relegation from the league, including a notable former Masters champion. The relegation process affects golfers who are ranked 49th or lower in the LIV Golf individual standings. These players must now compete in the 2024 LIV Golf Promotions tournament for a chance to regain their positions or pursue opportunities through the International Series, a merit-based ranking system derived from ten designated Asian Tour events, where John Catlin currently leads.
Recent changes to LIV Golf’s relegation policy stipulate that no player ranked 49th or worse after the LIV Golf Chicago event will be guaranteed a spot on the 2025 roster. Previously, captains were exempt from this rule, but it has now been revised, leading to significant consequences for some.
Among those affected is Bubba Watson, a two-time Masters champion. The new rule adjustment means Watson, who had previously been shielded from relegation as a team captain, now faces demotion due to his poor performance this season. His future with the RangeGoats, the team he captains, remains uncertain, though he could potentially take on a non-playing captain role.
Other players relegated include:
Kalle Samooja: Despite a strong start, Samooja faltered with a bogey-par-bogey finish at LIV Golf Chicago, dropping him to 49th place. He spent much of the final round in a more favorable position but ultimately fell into the Drop Zone.
Scott Vincent: Vincent struggled throughout the season, recording only two top-20 finishes, which contributed to his relegation.
Branden Grace: Known for his past successes, Grace’s performance this year was disappointing, with only two top-20 finishes. His inclusion on the relegation list is a notable development.
Kieran Vincent: Kieran, along with his brother Scott, will be relegated. Although he achieved his second-best finish of the year with a tie for 23rd in Chicago, it was not enough to secure his spot.
The affected players will now look to secure their positions through alternative routes, including the upcoming LIV Golf Promotions tournament and the International Series.