Former Masters champ named new OWGR chairman

The Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) has named a former Masters champion as its new Chairman.

Trevor Immelman, who won the Green Jacket in 2008, will succeed Peter Dawson and take the reins of the rankings body on April 10.

The South African – a winner on the Sunshine Tour, DP World Tour and PGA Tour – will become the third chairman of the OWGR since 2004.

“The Official World Golf Ranking has always been a huge part of my life and professional career,” he said.

“Growing up in South Africa and falling in love with the game as a youngster, the ranking system was how I tracked and followed my favourite players and understood who the best players in the world were.

“Then, as I turned professional, my focus on the rankings intensified, as I knew being in the top 50 allowed me to play in the biggest tournaments around the world.

“I am extremely honoured to follow in the footsteps of Sir Michael Bonallack and Peter Dawson as chairman, and I look forward to working closely with board members to ensure OWGR remains committed to its mission.”

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Immelman, 45, captained the International Presidents Cup team last September and will remain as a lead golf analyst on CBS.

The turnover comes as Dawson retires after spending eight years in the role.

He was behind the decision to deny LIV Golf access to world ranking points, due to “technical” issues surrounding the league’s format.

However, during his time as chairman, OWGR’s coverage extended from 16 to 24 tours, and introduced an updated system in August 2022.

“It has been a privilege to serve as chairman of OWGR and to work with the Board to serve men’s professional golf,” he said.

“OWGR provides an important framework and is continuing to evolve and improve while remaining true to its mission. I wish Trevor the very best and I’m sure he will carry out the role with distinction.”

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Meanwhile, the governing body has also announced two changes.

From Week 1, 2025, tournaments with Low Field Ratings will use a new points distribution curve, awarding a greater percentage of available points to top finishers in those tournaments.

While there is no change to the total amount of points awarded, 50% more points will be awarded to the winner, with a 26% overall increase in points awarded to the top five.

And the PGA Tour of Taiwan (Chinese Taipei) has been included in the OWGR system effective of Week 1.

John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.