As of Sunday, March 29, 2026, the golf world is abuzz with exciting developments across the PGA Tour, LPGA, and LIV Golf. The Texas Children’s Houston Open has reached its thrilling conclusion, the LPGA is set to revolutionize its broadcast coverage, and LIV Golf has achieved a significant milestone in its quest for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points.
Woodland in the Hunt at Houston Open
The Texas Children’s Houston Open is proving to be a dramatic affair, with Gary Woodland and Nicolai Højgaard separating themselves from the pack as they head into the final day of competition. Woodland, seeking his first win since the 2019 U.S. Open, has shown strong form, leading the field in approach play and ranking second in putting. Højgaard, a Ryder Cup debutant for Europe in 2023, has also made a strong push, displaying effective play throughout the tournament. The outcome of this event is particularly crucial for players like Michael Thorbjornsen, who is on the cusp of qualifying for the Masters, needing a strong finish to secure his invitation.
LPGA Embraces a New Era of Broadcasting
The LPGA Tour is set to undergo a significant transformation in its television coverage for the 2026 season. For the first time in the tour’s history, every round of every tournament will be broadcast live. This move, spearheaded by new LPGA commissioner Craig Kessler, aims to enhance visibility and make women’s golf more accessible to fans. The tour has partnered with FM and expanded its deal with Trackman to achieve these goals, incorporating upgraded camera equipment, microphones, slow-motion capabilities, and drone photography. Feature-driven programming and enhanced player access through “walk and talk” segments are also part of the revamped strategy to engage a new generation of golf fans. CBS Sports will also feature live final round coverage of four LPGA Tour events in 2026.
LIV Golf Achieves OWGR Recognition
In a significant development for the professional golf landscape, LIV Golf events will be awarded OWGR points starting in the 2026 season. After a period of seeking accreditation, the OWGR Board has decided to recognize LIV Golf events, albeit with certain stipulations. Points will be allocated to the top-10 finishers in individual stroke play events. This decision comes after LIV Golf made adjustments to its formats, including expanding tournaments to 72 holes and adding qualifying spots, in an effort to meet OWGR eligibility standards. This move is expected to impact player contracts and the overall ranking system in men’s professional golf.
Meanwhile, the LIV Golf Promotions event is set to take place in early 2026, offering players opportunities to secure spots in the 2026 LIV Golf League and International Series. Notable names from various tours, including former Ryder Cup players and accomplished amateurs, are confirmed to compete.
