Majesticks Shock LIV Field As PGA Tour Playoffs Heat Up

BusinessSportsMoneyMajesticks Shock LIV Field As PGA Tour Playoffs Heat UpByTim Corlett,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Professional and Amateur Golffor Break80Follow AuthorAug 20, 2026, 09:02pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.SummaryThe golf playoffs are in full swing as both the PGA and LIV tours wrapped up their first rounds. At the BMW Championship, Rory McIlroy is tied for the lead at 6 under par, alongside Gary Woodland, Wyndham Clark, J.J. Spaun, and Chris Gotterup. Scottie Scheffler struggled early but recovered to finish 2-over 70. Meanwhile, LIV Golf faces additional scrutiny amid a canceled event and uncertain future, yet its team championship saw an unlikely leader emerge. Twelfth-ranked Majesticks GC are two strokes ahead at 16 under, propelled by Laurie Canter's impressive 8-under round. Canter's strong play, including nine birdies, could lead to a "Cinderella story" win for his team, who finished last in 2025. Both leagues offer compelling storylines this weekend.Show More ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - AUGUST 20: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland plays his shot from the fourth tee during the first round of the BMW Championship 2026 at Bellerive Country Club on August 20, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)Getty ImagesThe playoffs are in full swing as the PGA Tour wraps up its first round at the BMW Championship, while LIV completes the first round of its individual and team championships.There is additional scrutiny on LIV this week as it cancels its planned event in Michigan and the future of the tour remains in question. Under the shadow of uncertainty, an unlikely team leads after the first round of team play.Twelfth-ranked Majesticks GC are two strokes ahead of Ripper GC at 16 under par. Leading the charge was Laurie Canter, who shot 8 under par. Canter was one over par t...