LIV Golf Open Zone Predictions: Sam Horsfield
While his three Majesticks GC teammates each finished outside of the Top 45, Sam Horsfield was the top-scoring member of the squad at 39th...
54 Golf Staff
10/23/20252 min read
As the wait begins for LIV Golf 2026, we take a look back to 2025 and ahead to next season by putting into focus the 24 golfers who escaped relegation but sit in the Open Zone. And then predict whether their current team will offer a contract or if another option is more likely for 2026.
In LIV Golf, the Open Zone is the section of the season-long individual standings for players ranked 25th through 48th. Players in this zone can remain in the league for the following season, but their current team is not obligated to offer them a new contract if their existing deal has expired. This means players in the Open Zone risk becoming free agents and can be signed by other teams or potentially lose their spot in the league if they are not re-signed.
Watch our latest podcast episode, "LIV Golf 2026: YouTube Star's Shocking Move?"
Top 'Stick
While his three Majesticks GC teammates each finished outside of the Top 45, Sam Horsfield was the top-scoring member of the squad at 39th. Someone had to be the best. Compared to other teams in the league, the top finishers on the other teams came in at:
1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 7th, 9th, 11th, 13th, 17th, 24th, and 32nd.
Only the Iron Heads' top scorer, Jinichiro Kozuma (32nd) was outside the Lock Zone with Sam in 2025.
Tee to Green Probs
Horsfield's season saw 41st or worse rankings in Fairway Hit %, Greens in Regulation %, and Scrambling. It is HARD to score when the birdie opportunities are lost before you hit the green, and Sam's game put him in that poor position more often than not last season.
His putting game was strong, however. T18 in Putting Average in the league is a small spark in the darkness. But, at 29, the other skills just haven't translated during competition.
Most Important Year Ever
For Sam, and maybe the Majesticks franchise, 2026 will be the most important year ever. They really need to translate their off-course success into standings points and podiums. With Henrik Stenson relegated, one roster spot should turn over (barring Henrik earning his way back on via Promotions), but multiple changes don't appear in the cards. Horsfield will sport the blue next year.
Data, quotes, and photos courtesy of LIV Golf Media