LIV Golf unveils first-ever transfer window

LIV Golf has launched the sport’s first-ever transfer window, which will be implemented ahead of the 2024 season.

Ahead of the breakaway league’s second full campaign, it has announced three zones that will decide the future of its players.

The newly introduced Lock Zone, Open Zone and Drop Zone will split the season-ending Individual standings, topped by Talor Gooch in 2023.

Players who finish in the top 24 will secure an opportunity with the league in the following season, as part of the Lock Zone.

Peter Uihlein, Anirban Lahiri, Carlos Ortiz, Richard Bland and Scott Vincent all have expiring contracts, so will be offered a minimum one-year extension.

• Tiger Woods issues surprise fitness update

• New footage excites Woods fans over impending return 

Those who finish 25-44, whose contracts are expiring, will become free agents through the Open Zone.

Meanwhile, the Drop Zone sees players 45 and below in the standings relegated out of the league and automatically qualifying for LIV Golf Promotions.

Just yesterday, Rory McIlroy admitted he thought LIV Golf was “in no man’s land”, while Tiger Woods has said he “couldn’t figure out” how the league worked.

Uncertainty surrounding the pathway for players ahead of the 2024 season has now been mapped out, though.

In addition to the categories, a trading system and draft have been brought in by Greg Norman’s startup.

Throughout the offseason, teams can trade players from their current rosters, providing the trade is approved by both teams.

• The 10 highest earning golfers in 2023

• PGA Tour admits deadline for Saudi deal could be missed

A mid-season trading window will then take place in 2024 (exact dates to be announced), where teams and players will be free to negotiate trades and contract extensions.

Following LIV Golf Promotions, the league will host the LIV Golf Draft.

It will draft the winner of The International Series and the top three finishers in LIV Golf Promotions onto the remaining teams that have an open spot on their roster.

The 2019 U.S. Amateur Champion Andy Ogletree has a comfortable lead in the International Series standings.

The 25-year-old competed in LIV Golf’s inaugural event near London in 2022 and has not played on the tour since.

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.