A LIV Golf player will receive an exemption for the 2025 iteration of the U.S. Open after tournament organizers announced they will create a new exemption specifically for the Saudi-backed league.
The United States Golf Association (USGA) revealed in a statement on Wednesday that declared that a direct entry exemption will be provided to the “top player who is not otherwise exempt and in the top 3 of the 2025 LIV Golf individual standings as of May 19, 2025.”
In addition, the top 10 players in the LIV Golf standings will also be exempt from local qualifying and alternatively enter the final 36-hole qualifying.
Through current rules, LIV Players have been able to participate in major championship events through their previous victories. Examples include America’s Bryson DeChambeau who picked up the U.S. Open title last year and Spain’s Jon Rahm through his triumphs at the 2021 U.S. Open and 2023 Masters.
The U.S. Open will become the first major to offer a direct exemption to a LIV Golf player in relation to the LIV Golf standings. Other specific exemptions have been given to the likes of Joaquin Niemann who has received invites to the Masters in both 2024 and 2025.
USGA chief championships officer John Bodenhamer said: “The USGA continues to evaluate the pathways that exist to ensure those playing their best have the opportunity to compete in our national championship.
“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.”
Newly-appointed LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil added: “We’re pleased that the USGA has formally created a new exemption for LIV Golf players to compete in the U.S. Open and appreciate Mike Whan’s leadership and commitment to growing the game of golf.
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.”
The 2025 U.S. Open will take place between 12-15 June at Oakmont Golf Course in Pennsylvania.