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LIV Golf has been granted an official pathway into a major championship.

The USGA has announced that it has opened up several routes for LIV golfers to qualify directly for the US Open, starting this year.

For the 2025 championship to be held at Oakmont Country Club, a full exemption will be awarded to a non-exempt player in the top three of the LIV Golf Individual Standings as of May 19.

Meanwhile, a local exemption – meaning a player can skip local qualifying – will be awarded to the top ten players in the LIV Golf Individual Standings as of April 7.

• LIV Golf announces major format change for 2025

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“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 LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil.

“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.”

From 2026, when the US Open will be staged at Shinnecock Hills, in New York, two more full exemptions will be up for grabs.

The top player, not already exempt, in the top three of the final 2025 LIV Golf Individual Standings, will receive an exemption. As will the top player, not already exempt, in the top three of the 2026 standings as of May 18, 2026.

Local exemptions will also be granted to the top ten players in the final 2025 standings and the 2026 standings as of May 18, 2026.

• Tom McKibbin explains decision behind LIV Golf move

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It means the US Open is the first major to award LIV with official exemptions and comes on the heels of Joaquin Niemann and Sergio Garcia receiving invitations to the PGA Championship in May.

USGA chief Mike Whan hinted at the move last year, as he revealed that the idea would be explored if the league continues to operate independently.

Several players, including Niemann, have long campaigned for the Saudi-backed upstart to be granted a major route.


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John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.

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