When LIV Golf launched in 2022, it set out to redefine the professional golf landscape with its bold innovations and relaxed approach. However, as the tour enters its fourth season, a shift towards a more traditional look appears to be underway.
The 2025 season tees off today in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with a notable change to the circuit’s previously liberal dress code. Since its inception, LIV Golf has allowed players to compete in shorts, a departure from the traditional attire seen on the PGA Tour. That is set to change, according to former LIV player Pat Perez.
Shorts Out, Trousers In
Perez, who was among the founding members of LIV Golf, recently stepped away from his playing role with the 4Aces team following a poor 2024 season. Now taking on a new position as an on-course reporter for the broadcast team, Perez revealed that the relaxed dress code will be a thing of the past.
“I got it confirmed the other day that the players are wearing pants,” he said. “The first place I thought about was Singapore, with the intense heat and humidity.”
The decision marks a return to golf’s traditional dress etiquette, aligning LIV Golf more closely with other professional circuits.
A Fresh Approach to Team Scoring
LIV’s season opener at Riyadh Golf Club promises to bring further changes beyond dress code regulations. The event, played under the floodlights at night, will also see the introduction of a revamped team scoring system.
Previously, team scores were determined by counting the top three individual scores from the first two rounds, meaning one player’s struggles could be mitigated. This year, every shot will count, each player’s score will contribute to the team’s total across all three rounds, placing added pressure on those having an off day.
Rahm Welcomes the Change
Legion XIII captain Jon Rahm, who topped the individual standings in his stellar debut LIV season, is in favour of the rule adjustment.
“I like it. I think it benefits a team like ours,” Rahm stated in his pre-tournament press conference. “We have four really strong players that are very consistent. I think it’s better for the league in general, for everybody to matter every single day.”
Rahm also highlighted how the change could lead to better competition and player development: “Sunday was already really exciting last year. But I think it’s better for the teams and the players’ development for every round to count. I’m very much in favour of it.”
Looking Ahead
As LIV Golf embarks on another thrilling season, these adjustments signal a maturing of the tour. With a stricter dress code and an all-in approach to team scoring, the breakaway league continues to evolve, offering new challenges for players while keeping the excitement levels high for fans.
