BREAKING: The Olympics are reviewing eligibility rules that could open the door for more LIV Golf players to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Games!
Currently, only Bryson DeChambeau (ranked 16th) and Tyrrell Hatton (22nd) are positioned to qualify from LIV Golf due to the OWGR ranking system not recognizing LIV as a legitimate tour.
Key Points Covered:
✅ Current Olympic golf qualification system explained
✅ Why LIV players are struggling to qualify
✅ Which LIV stars could benefit (Jon Rahm, Joaquin Niemann, Cameron Smith)
✅ New mixed team event format for 2028 Olympics
✅ How the review could change everything
The 2024 Paris Olympics featured 7 LIV players, but with players like Jon Rahm now ranked 75th and Joaquin Niemann at 103rd, the current system is keeping top talent out.
The 2028 LA Olympics will also feature an exciting new mixed team event at Riviera Country Club – 36 holes combining foursomes and four-ball formats.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story that could reshape Olympic golf!
Here’s a bombshell that could completely reshape Olympic golf as we know it. The powers that be are quietly reconsidering the very rules that have kept some of the world’s most talented golfers out of the games. As we gear up for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, there’s a brewing controversy that most golf fans aren’t even aware of yet. While everyone’s excited about the tournament moving to the prestigious Riviera Country Club and the introduction of that thrilling new mixed team format, there’s a much bigger story unfolding behind closed doors. Right now, the Olympic qualification system operates on what seems like a straightforward formula. The world’s top 15 players, according to the official World Golf Ranking, automatically punch their ticket to the games with each country capped at a maximum of four representatives. For those falling short of that elite group, the two highest ranked players from nations not yet represented, complete the 60 player field for both men’s and women’s competitions. But here’s where it gets controversial. The OWGR has steadfastly refused to acknowledge LIIV golf as a legitimate professional circuit. This stance has created a domino effect that’s absolutely devastating for LIIV players world rankings. These athletes can only accumulate ranking points through major championships and appearances on other recognized tours, essentially handicapping their Olympic dreams from the start. The numbers tell a stark story. Among all LIIV golf players, only Bryson Dshambo sits at 16th. Tier Hatton at 22nd in the current world rankings within the top 65. Think about that for a moment. Some of the most skilled golfers on the planet are being systematically excluded from Olympic consideration, not because of their ability, but because of where they choose to play. And this is the part most people miss. According to Newswire Australia’s recent reporting, the Olympic governing body is actively reviewing these eligibility criteria. This review could potentially blow the doors wide open for Liv players to qualify for future games, fundamentally altering the landscape of Olympic golf. To put this in perspective, the 2024 Paris Olympics featured seven live players, including high-profile names like Spain’s John Rom and Chile’s Waqin Neman. However, their current rankings of 75th and 103rd, respectively, demonstrate just how dramatically the current system has impacted their standing despite their undeniable talent and recent competitive performances. While the individual tournaments will undoubtedly capture attention, it’s the groundbreaking mixed team event that has the golf community absolutely buzzing with excitement. This innovative 36hole format promises to deliver unprecedented drama. Teams will tackle 18 holes of forsomes alternate shot in the opening round followed by 18 holes of fourball best ball to determine the champions. Each nation can field just one team consisting of one male and one female player who have already secured qualification for their respective individual competitions. The timing is strategically perfect, too. Scheduled right after the men’s individual tournament concludes, but before the women’s competition begins. But here’s what raises eyebrows. Is the current qualification system actually serving the spirit of Olympic competition? Are we potentially excluding worldclass athletes based on political and business disagreements rather than pure sporting merit? The Olympics have always been about bringing together the planet’s finest athletes, regardless of which league, circuit, or organization they represent. This review could mark a pivotal moment in professional golf’s relationship with the Olympics. The question isn’t just about LIIV players anymore. It’s about whether Olympic golf will embrace inclusivity or continue down a path that many argue undermines the very principles the games were founded upon. What do you think? Should Olympic qualification be based purely on current world rankings? Or is it time for a more comprehensive system that recognizes talent regardless of tour affiliation? Does the current system protect the integrity of the games or does it create an unfair barrier that goes against Olympic ideals? The conversation is just beginning and your perspective could shape how this unfolds.
