R&A Excluded LIV Golf From 2027 Open Exemptions
The governing body opted not to grant automatic qualifying spots to LIV Golf players for the 155th Open Championship.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Golf
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The R&A has released its exemption categories for the 155th Open Championship at St Andrews, noticeably omitting a direct pathway for LIV Golf players. The decision follows news that LIV Golf has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
Why it matters
The R&A cited the uncertainty surrounding LIV Golf due to its bankruptcy proceedings and the lack of a confirmed 2027 schedule as primary reasons for the exclusion. While previous seasons featured a direct exemption for the top LIV player, that status remains under review until the tour's future is finalized.
The 155th Open Championship at St Andrews will utilize 13 Open Qualifying Series events to determine participants. Additionally, a Last-Chance Qualifier will feature a field of 12 players on the Monday of championship week.
The players
The R&A
The R&A is the governing body responsible for organizing The Open Championship and overseeing the rules of golf globally.
LIV Golf
LIV Golf is a professional golf tour that operates internationally and has recently entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
The details
LIV golfers maintain the ability to qualify for the major through one of 13 Open Qualifying Series events or via standard Regional and Final Qualifying routes. Final Qualifying will be held at four venues including West Lancashire, Prince's, Glasgow Gailes, and Burnham & Berrow.
Timeline
September 22, 2026: The R&A released the 2027 Open Championship qualifying pathways.
June 29, 2027: Final Qualifying for The Open takes place.
July 2027: The Scottish Open is held.
Season Trajectory
This decision marks a significant shift in how professional tours without guaranteed major entry points must lobby for access. It complicates the path to the 155th Open for top LIV golfers, likely forcing them to rely on traditional qualifying events throughout the 2027 season.
LIV Golf players must now secure their spots through the 13 Open Qualifying Series events or attempt to qualify via the 12-man field at the Last-Chance Qualifier. This reduces the number of automatic qualifiers and places higher pressure on players to perform in independent qualifying rounds.
The takeaway
Professional golfers currently competing on the LIV tour face an increasingly narrow window to participate in traditional majors. Players will need to monitor the evolving exemption criteria closely as tour schedules for the upcoming year become finalized.
Further reading
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