Tournament Recap: 2026 LIV Golf Riyadh Final Round
The LIV Golf series made headlines once again this week as the final round of the 2026 LIV Golf Riyadh unfolded, showcasing an electrifying display of talent on the global golf stage. At the conclusion of an exhilarating day, it was Phil Mickelson who emerged victorious, clinching the title with a stunning performance that reminded fans why he remains a formidable force in the sport. His final round of 65 catapulted him to a three-stroke lead, proving not just his prowess, but also his ability to withstand pressure in front of a passionate crowd under the Arabian sun.
As fans tuned in from all corners of the globe, the competitive landscape here heightened anticipation for what was to come. The combination of star-studded competitors and pristine conditions shaped an unforgettable finale.
How the Round Unfolded
The day began with perfect weather in Riyadh: clear skies, minimal wind, and temperatures hovering around a comfortable 75°F (24°C). These favorable conditions bolstered the players’ spirits as they teed off, promising a thrilling showdown.
Mickelson’s stellar performance was kickstarted by an impressive eagle on the par-5 second, quickly setting the tone. However, the momentum shifted momentarily when Brooks Koepka made a charge, responding with three birdies in the first six holes to draw level with Mickelson. The fight for supremacy was palpable as the two legends exchanged ideal shots, with the crowd echoing cheers through the well-manicured fairways of the Royal Greens Golf and Country Club.
A key stretch occurred on the back nine when Mickelson rolled in a lengthy birdie putt on the par-3 14th, re-establishing a crucial two-stroke lead. From there, he maintained his composure, expertly navigating the course’s challenges. The sound of clapping and cheers behind him only fueled his confidence as he entered the final stretch.
Consequently, Koepka’s earlier momentum faltered, leading to a costly bogey on the 16th that solidified Mickelson’s universe in control. In the closing holes, Mickelson’s unflappable demeanor shone as he sealed the deal with a routine par on the final hole, culminating in a collective roar of appreciation from the witnessed crowd.
Standout Performances
Phil Mickelson’s triumph overshadowed the rest of the leaderboard, but other players turned in commendable performances. Brooks Koepka finished strong as well, closing the tournament at -14, with impressive flashes of brilliance throughout the day. His final round 68 was bolstered by a strong performance off the tee, yet the one bogey proved to be a setback in a tightly contested race against a seasoned veteran.
Dustin Johnson quietly staked his claim to the leaderboard with a consistent round of 69, finishing tied for third with Louis Oosthuizen, who displayed resilience and masterful putting to stay on track after facing challenges early in his round. As the tournament progressed, both players exhibited the depth of skill that LIV Golf continues to electrify global audiences with.
Perhaps one of the most notable performances was that of Matthew Wolff, who shot a brilliant 66, capturing the attention of fans and analysts alike. Wolff’s rhythm and drive showcased his growth as a player, marking him as one to watch in the upcoming tournaments.
Course and Conditions
The Royal Greens Golf and Country Club continues to gain acclaim for its stunning layout and ability to challenge even the best in the sport. This week’s setup, with firm greens and strategically positioned hazards, significantly impacted the players’ strategy and shot selection.
Weather conditions were ideal, but minor fluctuations—they say, a refreshing breeze—kept players on their toes. This exhilarating blend of course design and weather harmony allowed for an exciting day of golf, with several players expressing their gratitude for the immaculate setup.
Standings Context
Entering the final round, the cut line was originally set at -1, with several prominent players narrowly missing the weekend. The pressure of the LIV Golf series is palpable, with FedEx Cup implications hanging in the air—every stroke matters as players accumulate points towards the season’s finale.
With this win, Mickelson not only earns the winner’s purse but also bolsters his standings as he inches closer to the top contenders in the FedEx Cup race. The stakes continue to elevate, making each event a battleground for players vying for the ultimate prize.
What to Watch Next
As the dust settles on the LIV Golf Riyadh, the excitement continues to build with upcoming tournaments on the LIV circuit. Tee times and pairings for the next event will be released shortly, anticipated by fans eager to see how the momentum from this week translates.
The preview features many of the game’s greats, including earlier front-runners and festival favorites, suggesting that the next tournament will be another benchmark for outstanding golf. Each round promises the high-energy performances we’ve come to expect from this day and age of golf and the thrilling drama that unfolded in Riyadh.
As we look ahead to the next challenge, here’s a question for the fans: Who do you think will be Mickelson’s toughest challenge in the upcoming events, and why?
