LIV Golf Poised to Gain Open Championship Exemption Pathway, Report Says
LIV Golf is reportedly set to receive an exemption pathway into The Open Championship this year, according to The Telegraph. The route will likely offer a limited number of spots to the highest non-exempt LIV players, with confirmation expected in the coming weeks.
This development follows the US Open's recent announcement of providing exemption pathways for LIV golfers, starting with one spot in 2025 and increasing to two spots by 2026. The US Open will also offer direct routes to final qualifying for the top 10 players in LIV Golf standings after the Korea event in 2025.
Tiger Woods with championship trophies
The R&A's apparent decision marks a significant shift from their previous stance, when they banned former LIV CEO Greg Norman from attending the 150th Open in his official capacity.
Tiger Woods holding championship trophy
This momentum comes alongside other positive developments for LIV Golf, including:
- Six new player signings since September
- New team sponsorship deals
- Scott O'Neil replacing Greg Norman as CEO
- A new US TV deal with FOX Sports
- A fresh UK broadcast agreement with ITV
Man wearing blue shirt and hat
These developments suggest growing acceptance of LIV Golf within professional golf's established framework, potentially influencing similar decisions from other major tournaments in the future.