LIV Golf Under The Lights: The 2025 LIV Golf season is about to tee off in style, with Saudi Arabia hosting a glitzy opener that’s turning heads even before the first ball is struck. LIV Riyadh, held at the stunning Riyadh Golf Club, will break new ground as the circuit’s first-ever night tournament.
Yes, you read that right – under the lights, all three rounds, from February 8-10, will feature a shotgun start at 6:15pm local time. Expect drama, shadows, and possibly a few lost balls under the glare of the floodlights.
This nighttime spectacle follows LIV’s shiny new multi-year deal with FOX Sports in the US, ensuring live coverage of its 14 events. But here’s the big question: will the glow of the floodlights translate into glowing TV ratings?
Playing golf under the lights isn’t entirely new. If you’ve ever tackled The Faldo course at Emirates Golf Club after dark, you’ll know the unique challenge of hitting a shot from shadow into light. The real pressure, though, is on the TV crew. Viewers won’t just want to see the ball fly – they’ll need to see every swing, every reaction, and every bead of sweat. No pressure, then.
The concept is bold, no doubt. But if the coverage falls short, this gamble could end up in the rough. Golf needs to captivate audiences, and while LIV is pushing the boundaries, some might wonder if it’s trying too hard to reinvent the wheel.
Perhaps a nod to the past wouldn’t hurt. Remember Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf? It was simple yet brilliant, pairing top players and celebs in a laid-back setting that screamed entertainment. Now imagine, John Daly sharing the stage with Bill Murray. Pure gold, right?
Night golf might dazzle, but does it really outshine the charm of old-school showdowns? We’re about to find out.
