10 February 2025 - SHANK Media, by Matt Hooper: Following last week's announcement by the USGA that LIV Golf was to be awarded exemptions to the US Open in 2025 and 2026, The R&A has today confirmed that the leading non-exempt golfer within the top 5 of the Individual standings of LIV Golf through LIV Golf Dallas, in June, will earn a spot in The Open Championship at Royal Portrush. An additional 3 exemptions will be available at The International Series Macau (backed by LIV Golf, and including a number of LIV Golf players), and 1 exemption via the New Zealand Open presented by Sky Sport, and 1 exemption via the Kolon Korean Open (both Asian Tour events) as part of The Open Qualifying Series.
Mark Darbon, chief executive at The R&A, said in a statement: "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.
"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."
LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil said in a statement: "We thank Mark Darbon for his leadership and the R&A for taking this step for the benefit of moving golf forward.
"The Open Championship is one of the most prestigious events in all of sports. 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.
"LIV will continue our mission to bring the best players to the four corners of the world to grow the game. We are excited for the future of this great sport.”
After LIV Golf Riyadh, winner Adrian Meronk is in position to earn the exemption to Royal Portrush, with Sebastian Munoz, Lucas Herbert and Dean Burmester the other non-exempt players inside the top 5 of the Individual standings. It will add another dimension to the LIV Golf season, keeping an eye on the competition for the spots in both the US Open and The Open. It remains to be seen if The Masters and PGA of America will follow suit, if they do it could give LIV and X Factor that it has been missing, and help integrate it into the rest of professional golf.
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