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LIV Golf aiming to revolutionize the sport with groundbreaking debut
Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images

LIV Golf aiming to revolutionize the sport with groundbreaking debut

LIV Golf has done a commendable job expanding the sport to different corners of the globe. 

However, due to the time difference, hosting tournaments so far away from the United States shun the most coveted television market. Catering to U.S. viewers during these tournaments was impossible because professional golf is at the sun's mercy. So, LIV Golf decided to create its own sunlight.

This week, LIV Golf announced that its season-opening tournament, which will take place from Feb. 6-8 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will be held at night and under the lights. The shotgun start is scheduled for 6:15 p.m. local time, which is 10:15 a.m. EST in the United States. 

It will look similar to "The Match" series, which typically takes place in primetime under the lights. It's just as easy for viewers to see the ball and for the broadcast to show shot tracers. The only obstacles are the money and manpower needed to light up an 18-hole golf course in the darkness, but LIV has no shortage. 

This will be much different than LIV's previous stops in Saudi Arabia. Before this year, LIV Golf tournaments in Saudi Arabia occurred while most Americans slept. So, why is LIV now committing more money and resources to ensure golf fans in the U.S. can watch overseas tournaments? Well, that's an easy one.

Earlier this month, LIV Golf announced a multiyear media rights agreement with FOX Sports that will deliver live coverage of tournaments to viewers in the United States. This is LIV's first major television deal, so it can't afford to bomb its debut by playing when most American golf fans are fast asleep. 

This was really the only choice LIV had, but it could pave the way for the future of professional golf. 

Jack Dougherty

Jack Dougherty has been writing professionally since 2015, contributing to publications such as GoPSUSports. com, Centre Daily Times, Associated Press, and Sportscasting. com

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