PGA Tour players allowed to play LIV qualifier

PGA Tour members have been given the green light to participate in LIV Golf’s promotions event without the risk of suspension. This update comes after the Tour had previously taken a strict stance on members playing in LIV Golf events. However, there has been a slight easing of restrictions for the league’s qualifying event taking place from December 8-10 in the United Arab Emirates.

A spokesperson from the Tour confirmed to Golf Channel that the LIV Golf Promotion event is considered a qualifying event and not an unauthorized tournament. The spokesperson stated, “Based on the information publicly available regarding the LIV Golf Promotion event, it is determined to be a qualifying event only and not a part of an unauthorized series. Therefore, the LIV Golf Promotion event is not categorized as an ‘Unauthorized Tournament.’ This classification is subject to change should the details of the event change.”

Since LIV Golf started hosting events in 2022, Tour members have faced suspensions or have chosen to resign their memberships due to violations of the Tour’s regulations. Typically, these suspensions have lasted for one year from the player’s last LIV event.

While the “promotions” event does not carry the risk of sanctions or suspensions, the top three players after 72 holes in Abu Dhabi will earn a spot on LIV Golf for next year.

This decision by the Tour may indicate a potential easing of tensions with LIV Golf as the Tour engages in negotiations for a possible investment deal with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which holds a 93 percent ownership stake in LIV Golf. It is worth noting that a similar approach was taken by the Tour regarding members participating in International Series events on the Asian Tour, which is also funded by the PIF and serves as a pathway to play LIV Golf.