Decision defended as LIV Golf players are handed route into major

The USGA has announced some significant changes that will come into effect for this year’s event at Oakmont then additional ones for the 2026 edition at Shinnecock Hills.

For the 2025 championship, a full exemption will be awarded to the top player who is not otherwise exempt and in the top three of the 2025 LIV Golf individual standings as of May 19, 2025.

In addition, a local exemption will be awarded to the top 10 players from the 2025 LIV Golf individual standings as of April 7, 2025.

Then, for next year’s event, full exemption will be granted to the top player who is not otherwise exempt and in the top three of the 2025 LIV Golf individual standings.

In addition, a spot in the event will also go to the top player who is not otherwise exempt and in the top three of the 2026 LIV Golf individual standings as of May 18, 2026.

As well as that, there will be local exemptions the top 10 players from the final 2025 LIV Golf individual standings and the top 10 players from the 2026 LIV Golf individual standings as of April 6, 2026.

“The USGA continues to evaluate the pathways that exist to ensure those playing their best have the opportunity to compete in our national championship,” said John Bodenhamer, USGA chief championships officer.

"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."

The changes, which were announced in advance of the new LIV Golf season starting in Saudi Arabia later this week, have been welcomed by the breakaway circuit’s new CEO, Scott O’Neill.

“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,” said O’Neill, who has taken over the reins from Greg Norman.

“Every golf fan in the world longs to see the greatest players in the world 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.”

For both The Masters and PGA Championship, LIV Golf players otherwise not exempt have secured special invitations but, as was the case last year with Sergio Garcia, for example, they currently have to try and come through qualifying for The Open.