Reed backs bold LIV Golf shift as he builds momentum for 2026

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia - 4Aces GC star Patrick Reed says he’s fully on board with LIV Golf’s newly announced shift to 72 holes next season, a change he believes will reward the best performers and elevate the league’s competitive edge.

Speaking during this week’s series finale of The International Series at the PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers, the 2018 Masters champion didn’t hide his enthusiasm.

“I love it,” he said of the move to four rounds. “The more holes you play, the more the top players rise to the occasion. With the three-round tournaments, it turned into a really fast sprint. You knew it would be different, but you didn’t think it would be that different.”

That confidence translated into a solid showing on Friday, where he carded a 4-under 67 to move to 6-under overall. A run of three consecutive birdies from the 11th hole showcased flashes of his best, even if he felt there was more out there.

“It was OK for the most part,” Reed said. “I actually drove the ball better earlier this week, but I hit a lot of quality irons and gave myself a ton of opportunities. I felt like I left a lot out there, missed a couple short ones, but to feel like I got nothing out of the round and still shoot 4-under is a good sign. Hopefully tomorrow I get off to a fast start and make the putts rather than miss them.”

The strong round adds to what has been a standout season. His first LIV Golf League victory in Dallas helped secure seventh on the standings, alongside a runner-up finish at International Series Macau presented by Wynn that booked his spot in The 153rd Open, and a third-place finish at the Masters.

That result in Macau was pivotal, and Reed says it embodies what makes The International Series so valuable to players worldwide.

“That’s what’s awesome about the Asian Tour and The International Series events, the majors are really starting to recognize the talent and the great play from the players out here, and because of that they’re allowing spots in the majors and these big events," Reed said. “I think it’s huge for this tour because it brings guys over to try to earn spots and showcase their game. It really shows how global golf is and how important it is for the majors to branch out and give players worldwide a chance to compete in the four biggest events in the world.

“The form has been getting a lot better. Golf’s a funny game, one day you’re flushing it and burning edges, the next day you’re hitting it sideways but making everything. It’s very close to being really, really good. The irons feel great. Now I just need the putter to cooperate.”

This season has also seen Reed embrace The International Series travel schedule, with appearances in Macau, International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus, and Link Hong Kong Open. That global rhythm, he says, sharpens his game.

“Traveling worldwide makes you adapt, different grasses, altitudes, temperatures, time zones," Reed said. "It shows you what needs work and what’s improving. It’s great preparation.”

With one round left in Riyadh, the goal is to finish strong before turning attention to next year.

The plan?

“Go home and take some time off - it’s well deserved," Reed said. "I’ve played 32 weeks already this year. Then I’ll sit down with my coaches, figure out what to work on in the offseason, and probably play a couple DP World Tour events in Dubai to get ready for LIV starting up here in Saudi.”

(Photo courtesy of Asian Tour)