Golf-The Open becomes second major to create LIV Golf exemption

Hwaseung Co

10/02/2025 13:16

Feb 10 (Reuters) - The R&A has created an exemption
category for LIV Golf players to compete in The Open, it said on
Monday, becoming the second major golf tournament to introduce a
formal pathway for golfers on the Saudi-backed circuit after the
U.S. Open.
    The leading player not already exempt in the top five of
this year's Individual Season Standings following the completion
of LIV Golf Dallas will be awarded a place at the 153rd Open at
Royal Portrush, the R&A said.
    "The Open is a global championship for the best men's
golfers and each year we review our exemptions to ensure that we
offer pathways into the Championship based on results achieved
on the leading professional tours," Mark Darbon, Chief Executive
at the R&A, said in a statement.
    "We acknowledge that players competing in LIV Golf should
also have the opportunity to secure places in The Open through
its individual season standings as well as existing pathways.
    "We are proud to offer a wide range of opportunities to
qualify globally and look forward to seeing which golfers will
emerge to take their place at Royal Portrush in July."
    While LIV Golf players had been eligible to play in golf's
majors, there had previously been no direct pathway for them
into the blue-riband events, which meant qualification was more
difficult for those without previously existing exemptions.
    On February 5, the USGA created an exemption category for
LIV Golf players to compete in the U.S. Open.
    LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil thanked the R&A for creating an
exemption category at The Open.
    "The Open Championship is one of the most prestigious events
in all of sports," O'Neil said.
    "The acknowledgement that competitors from the LIV Golf
League and The International Series will have the opportunity to
play in golf's original major is a true testament to the
strength of fields and the R&A's commitment to golf fans around
the world."
    The next edition of The Open will be played from July 13-20.

 (Reporting by Pearl Josephine Nazare in Bengaluru;
Editing by Christian Radnedge)
 ((PearlJosephine.Nazare@thomsonreuters.com;))