In an effort to improve efficiency and streamline the scoring process, LIV Golf tournaments have implemented a new procedure for players to sign their scorecards immediately after their rounds on the finishing greens. This change will be in effect starting with the LIV Golf Chicago tournament.
Traditionally, players would make their way to the scoring tent after their rounds to sign their scorecards. However, this practice is now a thing of the past for LIV Golf. Instead, players will now have the convenience of signing their cards on the greens themselves before returning to the clubhouse via carts.
This new post-round signing process was initially reserved for players finishing their final rounds on the 18th green. For instance, Bryson DeChambeau signed his scorecard under an umbrella during rainy conditions after shooting a historic 58 at Greenbrier. However, beginning with the first round of the LIV Golf Chicago tournament at Rich Harvest Farms, all 48 players will be involved in this new procedure.
This change is a direct result of LIV Golf’s shotgun start format, which often leads to players finishing on different holes. By eliminating the need for players to travel back to a central scoring tent, LIV Golf aims to speed up the scoring process and allow players to proceed with their post-round activities more quickly.
David Benne, LIV Golf’s Senior Vice President of Competition Management in Events, believes that this change will significantly improve the speed and turnaround for scoring a round. He also mentioned that several players have already experienced signing their cards on the greens and have been receptive to the new process.
The players themselves are supportive of the new procedure. Cameron Tringale of HyFlyers GC thinks that it is a cool idea because it allows players to be officially done sooner without the drive back to the scoring area. This benefit enables players to focus on other aspects of their post-round routines, such as practice or treatment, in a more timely manner.
Marc Leishman of Ripper GC recalled a situation in the most recent tournament where he had to rush back to the scorer’s tent to sign his card before heading to the 18th green to watch his teammate secure both individual and team trophies. Under the new procedure, Leishman can sign his scorecard immediately and then proceed directly to where he is needed without any delays.
It is anticipated that the new signing process will be particularly beneficial on Sundays when the stakes are higher. Leishman mentioned that if this procedure had been in place during the Bedminster tournament, it would have made things easier. Overall, he sees this change as a positive development.
To ensure accuracy and to assist with the scoring process, LIV Golf has trained Scoring Support Ambassadors who follow each group. These ambassadors are responsible for verifying scores and collecting the scorecards. If there are any issues or concerns, players will always have the option to consult with the Rules Committee before signing their cards. Additionally, video reviews will continue to be available as needed.
In conclusion, the implementation of the new procedure for signing scorecards on the finishing greens immediately after rounds is aimed at improving efficiency and speeding up the scoring process in LIV Golf tournaments. With positive feedback from players and increased convenience, this change is likely to have a positive impact on the overall experience for participants and fans alike.