54-holes Clutch Pro Tour is aproved for receive world rankings points

The Clutch Pro Tour, established in 2019, is a third tier circuit designed to provide opportunities for lower-level professionals, primarily in the UK. Its unique format features 54-hole tournaments with a 36-hole cut, making it an exciting platform for emerging talent. Over the past 17 months, the tour underwent a rigorous application process, demonstrating its commitment to meeting the Official World Gof Rankings (OWGR) eligibility and format criteria.

In a groundbreaking development, the Clutch Pro Tour has secured its place as an OWGR Eligible Tour. The announcement, made by OWGR Chairman Peter Dawson, marks a significant milestone for golf, particularly in the United Kingdom. 

The Clutch Pro Tour’s journey to OWGR recognition involved sustained efforts and adherence to standards. Its commitment to player development, especially since the closure of the EuroPro Tour, impressed the OWGR. By providing playing opportunities and pathways, the Clutch Pro Tour has become a vital force in UK golf.

The Clutch Pro Tour, currently named Mizuno Next Gen Series for sponsors reasons, serves as a feeder to both the Challenge Tour and the DP World Tour, offering pathways for players to progress in their careers. Its Tier One tournaments will now be recognized as an OWGR Eligible Golf Tour, opening doors for players seeking world ranking points.

The 54-hole mini tour’s acceptance into the OWGR system highlights its resilience and dedication. As players tee off at Heythrop Park in Oxfordshire for the opening event, the golfing world eagerly awaits their progress.

LIV Golf’s Unfortunate Rejection

While the Clutch Pro Tour celebrates its inclusion, another 54-hole tour faces disappointment. LIV Golf, the Saudi-backed circuit launched in 2022, had its application unanimously rejected by the OWGR last October. Despite featuring major champions like Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson and others, LIV Golf’s format did not align with equitable ranking criteria, according to the OWGR.

The difference between LIV Golf and the Clutch Pro Tour lies in two specific points. First, the lack of cuts in LIV events (Clutch Tour has cuts). Second, the lack of a proper promotion and relegation system in LIV Golf (Clutch Tour has a Q-Scool each season, and every player can be promoted and/or relegated).

The rejection left LIV Golf players without world ranking points, impacting their standings. The league’s withdrawal from the application process further underscores the challenges it faces in gaining recognition.

Clutch Pro Tour: Looking Ahead

As the Clutch Tour gains momentum, LIV Golf faces introspection. The league’s team-based format and unique style have yet to secure world ranking status. While LIV Golf’s stars continue to compete, their absence from the rankings remains a challenge.

The OWGR’s decision sends a clear message: adherence to established criteria matters. As golf evolves, both tours must find common ground. For now, the Clutch Tour celebrates its ascent, while LIV Golf seeks a path forward.