Nick Faldo, former golfer and TV commentator, uses every opportunity to share his thoughts on the golf scene. While he isnt a fan of all the innovations in golf, he recently commented on golf courses, suggesting that they should be shorter. He believes that the future of golf should focus on these shorter courses. Even before the arrival of LIV Golf, there were many questions about the future of the sport and whether golf courses should be lengthened. Some people oppose this, arguing that it could disrupt the natural feel of golf and make rounds last longer.
In an interview with the PGA, the 67-year-old emphasized that 12-hole courses should be the future of golf. Faldo is not a supporter of the traditional 18 holes, citing several disadvantages to that format. He thinks many people are resistant to such changes and continue to firmly advocate for 18-hole courses.
For years, questions about the future of golf have been raised, but Faldo believes that some people are finally understanding what the best solution is. Judging by fan reactions, the 12-hole format could bring numerous advantages, such as faster gameplay and less time commitment. The main goal of these changes is to spark interest, especially among young people, to play golf.
Many believe that the 18-hole format has several drawbacks, which can diminish motivation and enthusiasm for the sport. The 12-hole format also allows players to have more free time. Additionally, it is less physically demanding, making it easier for newcomers to take up the sport, as well as for older players. It's important to note that maintaining focus is easier with fewer holes to play.
Faldo pointed out that it has taken many years for people to realize the importance of such changes. However, the question remains: will the leading golf organizations be willing to embrace this idea?
Faldo mentioned that the Open Championship originally had 12 holes, stressing it as an interesting piece of history. He expressed his desire to get support from the R&A (the Royal and Ancient Golf Club), arguing that since the tournament started with 12 holes, they should consider promoting that format again. He believes that this idea will gain traction in the future.
LIV Golf and its ideas
LIV Golf has decided to make a similar change. While they also use the 18-hole format, they operate with a total of 54 holes, meaning three rounds of 18 holes. LIV Golf officials have stated that they are listening to the needs of fans and golfers and have chosen to implement innovations that will draw attention not only to their tour but to golf as a whole. Their intention is to speed up the game and make it more attractive.
They haven't ruled out the option of shortening the format to 12 holes. This could provoke mixed reactions, especially from traditional golfers who prefer to uphold the sport's traditions rather than embrace innovations. Leaders of this Saudi-backed tour aim to attract younger audiences and do whatever it takes to make them love golf, and the 12-hole format could be just one step in that direction.
It's not just the leaders of LIV Golf who are considering these ideas; many well-known figures in the sport also often voice their support for such changes. However, for now, the leaders in the golf world do not seem open to this concept.
Woods and Rory McIlroy have not publicly commented on this issue, but LIV golfer Jon Rahm, despite being part of the "innovative tour," seems to favor tradition over innovation.
Jon Rahm and his view
Jon Rahm shared his thoughts about LIV Golf, suggesting that if they were to adopt a 72-hole format, it could strengthen their position in the ongoing discussions about the future of the sport. He believes that aligning LIV Golf more closely with traditional formats would benefit the conversation about unifying the tours and potentially create a global tour.
Rahm stated, I dont know if Im alone in this, but I definitely wouldnt mind going back to 72 holes,
