Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson has voiced strong opposition to LIV Golf's decision to extend tournaments to 72 holes starting in 2026. In a recent interview, he defended the league's original 54-hole format, arguing it creates more exciting competition for fans. Watson also commented positively on Brooks Koepka's departure to the PGA Tour.
LIV Golf announced in November that it would switch all tournaments from 54 holes over three days to 72 holes over four days beginning in 2026. The change aims to secure recognition from the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), as the shorter format had been a key obstacle. LIV players have faced declining world rankings and difficulties qualifying for major championships since the league's inception.
During LIV Golf media days in Florida, Watson, captain of the RangeGoats GC team, told Mirror U.S. Sports reporter Sam Frost that he does not support the move. "Um, no," Watson said when asked about the 72-hole format. He explained his preference for three-day events, stating, "I think with the sprint, everyone stays together. When you go four days you’re going to have some more spread out leaders, and it just kind of takes away your last round, right?"
Watson argued that the 54-hole structure fosters tighter fields and more "chaos," which benefits spectators. "When everybody’s close battling, it puts more people in the mix on a Sunday or the last round on a Saturday... and so that just makes it better for the fans when there’s chaos happening," he said. This view contrasts with LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil's recent optimism about OWGR approval, partly due to the format adjustment.
The interview also addressed Brooks Koepka's recent exit from LIV to rejoin the PGA Tour, facing financial penalties. Watson dismissed any threat to the league, saying, "The league’s in a great spot. One person’s not going to dictate what the league’s doing." He expressed support for Koepka, noting the move allows more family time and aligns with LIV's philosophy of flexible career paths.
Looking ahead, Watson aims to secure his first individual LIV victory and a team title for RangeGoats. The 2026 season begins the first week of February with the LIV Golf Riyadh event in Saudi Arabia. LIV is also adding three extra players per event and continues efforts to appease OWGR chairman Trevor Immelman.
