US Open becomes first major to offer exemptions to LIV Golf players
Annapurna Rai | Feb 06, 2025, 21:55 IST
( Image credit : AP )
The US Open will offer exemptions to LIV Golf players for the first time, allowing top performers from the Saudi-backed circuit to compete. Starting in 2025, one spot will be granted, increasing to two in 2026. This decision acknowledges the competitive talent within LIV Golf and sets a precedent for other major championships.
The US Open has taken a groundbreaking step in the world of professional golf, becoming the first major tournament to offer exemptions to LIV Golf players. The United States Golf Association (USGA) announced on Wednesday that new qualification criteria will be introduced, allowing top performers from the Saudi-backed circuit to compete in the prestigious championship.
Under the revised guidelines, one spot will be granted to the highest-ranked player among the top three in the LIV Golf Individual Standings as of May 19—provided that player has not already secured an exemption. This new measure will take effect for the 2025 US Open, scheduled to be held from June 12-15 at Oakmont Country Club. In 2026, the allocation will expand to two spots, further solidifying the integration of LIV Golf players into the championship.
This decision marks a significant shift in the relationship between the USGA and LIV Golf, which has faced considerable scrutiny since its inception in 2022. The move suggests a step toward reconciliation, acknowledging the competitive talent within the breakaway league.
John Bodenhamer, USGA chief championships officer, emphasized the organization’s commitment to ensuring the best players have the opportunity to compete. “The USGA continues to evaluate the pathways that exist to ensure those playing their best have the opportunity to compete in our national championship,” Bodenhamer stated. “Consistent with our historical approach, we continuously evaluate talent levels on professional tours and in amateur events, which has led us to add a new exemption category.”
Historically, some LIV Golf players have qualified for major tournaments based on previous performances. Notable figures such as Jon Rahm, Phil Mickelson, and defending US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau already hold exemptions for this year’s tournament. Additionally, players have received special invitations to compete in other majors, as seen with Joaquin Niemann’s upcoming participation in the Masters from April 10-13.
However, the USGA’s latest decision represents the first formalized pathway for LIV Golf players to secure a spot in a major championship. The exemption process will extend to the 2026 US Open, with two players earning entry based on their standing in the 2025 LIV Golf individual rankings and as of May 18, 2026.
LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil expressed gratitude for the USGA’s recognition of the league’s talent and its commitment to broadening the sport’s reach. “We’re pleased that the USGA has formally created a new exemption for LIV Golf players to compete in the US Open and appreciate Mike Whan’s leadership and commitment to growing the game of golf,” O’Neil said. “Every golf fan in the world longs to see the greatest players competing on golf’s biggest stages at the majors. LIV Golf is committed to working hand in hand with golf’s governing bodies to elevate the sport in all corners of the world.”
The move sets a precedent for other major championships, which may now face increased pressure to create similar exemptions. As the professional golf landscape continues to evolve, the USGA’s decision underscores the growing influence of LIV Golf and its players, ensuring that the US Open remains a competition that truly showcases the world’s best talent.
Under the revised guidelines, one spot will be granted to the highest-ranked player among the top three in the LIV Golf Individual Standings as of May 19—provided that player has not already secured an exemption. This new measure will take effect for the 2025 US Open, scheduled to be held from June 12-15 at Oakmont Country Club. In 2026, the allocation will expand to two spots, further solidifying the integration of LIV Golf players into the championship.
This decision marks a significant shift in the relationship between the USGA and LIV Golf, which has faced considerable scrutiny since its inception in 2022. The move suggests a step toward reconciliation, acknowledging the competitive talent within the breakaway league.
John Bodenhamer, USGA chief championships officer, emphasized the organization’s commitment to ensuring the best players have the opportunity to compete. “The USGA continues to evaluate the pathways that exist to ensure those playing their best have the opportunity to compete in our national championship,” Bodenhamer stated. “Consistent with our historical approach, we continuously evaluate talent levels on professional tours and in amateur events, which has led us to add a new exemption category.”
Historically, some LIV Golf players have qualified for major tournaments based on previous performances. Notable figures such as Jon Rahm, Phil Mickelson, and defending US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau already hold exemptions for this year’s tournament. Additionally, players have received special invitations to compete in other majors, as seen with Joaquin Niemann’s upcoming participation in the Masters from April 10-13.
However, the USGA’s latest decision represents the first formalized pathway for LIV Golf players to secure a spot in a major championship. The exemption process will extend to the 2026 US Open, with two players earning entry based on their standing in the 2025 LIV Golf individual rankings and as of May 18, 2026.
LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil expressed gratitude for the USGA’s recognition of the league’s talent and its commitment to broadening the sport’s reach. “We’re pleased that the USGA has formally created a new exemption for LIV Golf players to compete in the US Open and appreciate Mike Whan’s leadership and commitment to growing the game of golf,” O’Neil said. “Every golf fan in the world longs to see the greatest players competing on golf’s biggest stages at the majors. LIV Golf is committed to working hand in hand with golf’s governing bodies to elevate the sport in all corners of the world.”
The move sets a precedent for other major championships, which may now face increased pressure to create similar exemptions. As the professional golf landscape continues to evolve, the USGA’s decision underscores the growing influence of LIV Golf and its players, ensuring that the US Open remains a competition that truly showcases the world’s best talent.