The PGA professional is carving out a unique path in the MENA region—one that combines coaching, content creation, and a passion for making golf more accessible to the next generation
Four years ago, Liv made a decision that would reshape her career: she packed her bags and moved to Dubai. For the British PGA professional, it wasn’t a leap into the unknown—it was a homecoming of sorts. The UAE had been calling her back ever since her family’s stint there in 2006, when a young Liv spent countless hours on the par-3 course at Emirates Golf Club and The Montgomery.
“From that time on, I always knew that when it came to pursuing my career, Dubai was where I wanted to be,” she says.
Today, Liv has become one of the most visible advocates for women’s golf in the Middle East, building a career that extends far beyond the fairways. Through her social media presence (@livcooke_golf on Instagram and @Livgolfs on YouTube), coaching work, and recent ventures into presenting, she’s showing a new generation what’s possible in the modern golf industry.
A Foundation Built on Family
Liv’s golf story began at age four, introduced to the game by her father.
“As my parents had two daughters, I was always the sporty one growing up, like the son they never had,” she recalls with a laugh. Golf quickly consumed her life, and by 16, she was attending golf college with a clear vision: she wanted to build a career in the industry.
Her path through PGA training led to work across the UK before Emirates Golf Club came calling with a teaching professional position—the opportunity that would bring her to the UAE. When asked about her biggest influences, Liv doesn’t hesitate.
“Without a doubt, my dad has been my biggest influence. He introduced me to the game at a very young age and has played a huge role in shaping the golfer—and person—I am today.”
She pauses before adding with a grin, “And of course, Tiger Woods—simply because he’s the GOAT.”
What keeps Liv in Dubai goes beyond nostalgia. The UAE’s investment in golf infrastructure has created an environment unlike anywhere else she’s experienced.
“The facilities here are absolutely outstanding—among the best I’ve experienced anywhere,” she explains. “Growing up, I didn’t have access to anything like this, and it’s clear that young players here are already one step ahead.”
It’s not just the pristine course conditions or world-class clubhouses that impress her. The integration of advanced technology accessible to golfers of all abilities, combined with unmatched hospitality, creates an ecosystem where the sport can thrive.
“Honestly, I can’t imagine being anywhere else,” she says.
Step into Liv’s world and you’ll quickly discover that her passion for golf is matched only by her dedication to fitness. She’s in the gym seven days a week, with strength training as her foundation.
“I’m really passionate about fitness and actually do a little personal training along with some personal golf coaching in Dubai,” she says. “I like to connect golf and fitness because I believe strength is such a key part of the game, especially for women.”
For Liv, this isn’t just personal philosophy—it’s practical advice she gives to every golfer looking to improve.
“We all need distance and speed, and the only way to achieve that consistently is through proper training,” she emphasizes.
Her approach reflects a broader shift in women’s golf, where athleticism and power are finally getting the recognition they deserve.
Liv’s social media journey started simply: documenting her transition from amateur to professional, her move to Dubai, her coaching work. What evolved was something far more significant.
“Along the way, it’s helped me build my personal brand and showcase who I am, not just as a golfer but as someone confident speaking on camera and communicating effectively,” she explains.
That confidence has opened doors to brand partnerships and, more importantly, created a platform for advocacy.
“I truly believe platforms like these have played a huge role in encouraging more women to take up the game,” Liv says. “Seeing people like myself and other advocates has inspired so many, and it’s amazing to see how much the women’s side of the sport continues to grow—largely thanks to social media.”
In the Middle East, where visibility for women in sports can still be limited, Liv sees social media as particularly powerful.
“In this part of the world especially, visibility matters,” she notes. “Seeing women actively playing, coaching, and working within golf helps normalize their presence in the sport and encourages the next generation to get involved.”
Liv’s openness extends to discussing the challenges that even professionals face. Her mental game, she admits candidly, isn’t always her strongest suit—part of why she doesn’t compete in as many tournaments as she once did.
“I do get quite anxious,” she acknowledges. “The main advice I’d give is to stay persistent on the tough days. Golf is such a fluctuating game—some days will be better than others—so the key is to focus on the shot in front of you.”
This vulnerability has become part of her appeal.
“I try to show that it’s normal to have challenges and that even pros make mistakes,” she says. “Honestly, I’d say I’m a better coach than a player, but that perspective allows me to connect with others and make the game more approachable.”
With a substantial following watching her journey, Liv feels a responsibility to keep it real.
“I feel a responsibility to make golf seem both fun and relatable. It’s not always easy—golf can be stressful and frustrating—so I try to show that it’s a journey.”
The newest evolution in Liv’s career might be the most exciting yet. She’s recently stepped into presenting, fulfilling a long-held dream.
“When I started my social media, part of the goal was to create a portfolio to showcase how I come across on camera and how I interact with people,” she reveals.
Every celebrity collab on Youtube, every interview she filmed, every piece of content—it was all building towards this. She was essentially creating her own showreel, proving she could handle herself in front of a camera and make people feel comfortable.. Now she’s presenting on the Legends Tour and recently interviewed players at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship.
“I have some very exciting opportunities coming up within the sporting industry around the world,” she says. “Honestly, I never imagined I’d be at this point today, and I’m excited for what’s next.”
When asked what changes she’d like to see in women’s golf, Liv’s answer is straightforward.
“I’d love to see women’s golf become more visible and celebrated, both regionally and globally. Ultimately, it’s about creating an environment where women feel welcome, inspired, and supported to grow in the sport—and where golf becomes a game that truly belongs to everyone.”
