British Open Provides LIV Golfers with Direct Route to Royal Portrush After US Open Transition

The British Open has followed in the footsteps of the US Open by establishing a direct route for golfers from the breakaway LIV Golf series to gain entry into this year’s prestigious championship.

The top-ranked player who is not already exempt and finishes in the top five of LIV’s individual standings, following its tournament in Dallas at the end of June, will secure a place in the world’s oldest major, set to occur next month at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, as confirmed by the R&A.

This move was made after an annual assessment of the Open’s exemptions, aimed at ensuring that pathways into the Championship reflect performances from leading professional tours, according to R&A chief executive Mark Darbon.

Last week, the US Open declared it will offer one entry to the leading player from among the top three at the midway point of the LIV season.

“We recognise that players involved in LIV Golf deserve the chance to qualify for the Open through the individual season standings as well as existing avenues,” Darbon stated.

“We take pride in providing a diverse range of opportunities for global qualification and are eager to see which golfers will step forward to compete at Royal Portrush in July.”

Scott O’Neil, CEO of LIV Golf, remarked that the R&A’s decision reflects the high calibre of fields and their dedication to golf fans globally.

“LIV will persist in our aim to assemble the finest players from around the globe to expand the game. We are enthusiastic about the future of this magnificent sport,” he added.

Additionally, the R&A is incorporating an Asian Tour International Series event in Macau into its Open Qualifying Series, providing entry for the top performers. LIV Golf supports the International Series financially, and many players from LIV frequently compete in these events.

It’s worth noting that in 2022, the R&A removed a spot allocated to the Asian Tour money winner around the time LIV became involved with the circuit. In the two preceding years, regular events from the Asian Tour served as part of the Open Qualifying Series.

The LIV series, which is backed by Saudi investment, already has 12 players who are either exempt or have qualified for the Open at Portrush from July 17-20. This group includes major champions and former Open winners such as Bryson DeChambeau, Phil Mickelson, Jon Rahm, and Australian star Cameron Smith.

LIV recently commenced its fourth season at Riyadh Golf Club, where Adrian Meronk emerged victorious, and will soon head to Adelaide, Australia, for its next event.

Overall, the 2025 schedule includes a total of 14 tournaments.