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The inaugural LIV Golf regular season has come to an end, meaning players on the wrong side of the standings are headed to relegation. Per the league regulations, any player ranking 49th or lower after the Chicago event has lost their automatic spot for 2025.
According to data from the Final LIVE Golf Standings, a number of notable names unfortunately find themselves in the dreaded 'Drop Zone'. One of the biggest surprises is none other than Bubba Watson, the 4 Aces GC captain. Despite his major championship pedigree, Watson could only manage two top-20s this term.
Another former major winner, Laurie Canter of Nero GC, also waves goodbye after playing limited events as a reserve. Joining golf's famous duo in the relegation pool are Finn Kalle Samooja, English duo Scott and Kieran Vincent, and countryman Branden Grace.
They will now head to the inaugural LIV Golf Promotions tournament for redemption. Meanwhile, Asian Tour's International Series offers another potential route back for John Catlin leading that list. With captains now also in jeopardy, 2025 promises plenty of drama around who makes LIV Golf's final cut.
Disappointment for Fin Samooja in Final Chicago Round
It was heartbreak for 4 Aces GC player Kalle Samooja, who came agonizingly close to surviving relegation. The Finnish star held a one-shot buffer heading into the last day but stumbled home with a tough bogey-par-bogey stretch. A 74 saw Samooja slide down the leaderboard, ultimately Missing the 49th cutoff spot by a single stroke.
Kalle Samooja with the LIV Golf Promotions trophy. Photo X
Inconsistent Vincent Brothers Drop Out
Twins Scott and Kieran Vincent endured difficult sophomore LIV seasons with little consistency. Scott could manage only a pair of top-20s, far below expectations. Younger brother Kieran placed 23rd in Chicago but that was a mere high point in an otherwise rocky term. Both will have to improve greatly to re-qualify.
Scott Vincent and Kieran Vincent
Late Rule Change Strikes Bubba Watson
One of the biggest names in the Drop Zone is Bubba Watson. The quirk team captaincy exemption removal came as a surprise blow. With just two top-20s all year in his rookie Saudi circuit campaign, Watson's place in the game is now uncertain heading into 2025.
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Branden Grace Also Among Surprises
Another offseason signing facing an unexpected early end is big hitter Branden Grace. The smooth South African was a model of consistency in the past but could replicate that form, posting the equal lowest top-20 count of two. All will be keen to see how these relegated stars respond.
Branden Grace reacts to his birdie on the 13th green during the final round of the LIV Golf Invitational-Portland/ Chris Trotman
