Open becomes second major to make huge LIV Golf announcement
The R&A, which runs The Open Championship, have announced pathways into the major championship for LIV Golf League players.
The Open has become the second major championship within a week to confirm LIV Golf League players will have the opportunity to earn an exemption into this year's tournament.
The Royal & Ancient (R&) said the leading player - not already exempt - in the top five of the breakaway tour's individual season standings following the completion of LIV Dallas will be awarded a spot at this July's Open.
The 153rd Open Championship will be played at Royal Portrush over 17-20 July.
Mark Darbon, the chief executive of the R&A, said the governing body recognises that players in LIV Golf should have the opportunity to secure places in The Open.
He added: "We are proud to offer a wide range of opportunities to qualify globally and look forward to seeing which golfers will emerge to take their place at Royal Portrush in July."
It comes after the United States Golf Association (USGA) became the first major championship to provide LIV players with an exemption into the U.S. Open based on their rankings in the league.
The USGA said the top player from the PIF-backed league - not otherwise exempt - will get a spot in the field when the major championship heads to Oakmont in June.
This number will increase to three from 2026.
Additionally, the top 10 players in the LIV Golf standings on 7 April will be exempt from local qualifying and will head straight to the 36-hole shootout.
Meanwhile, the PGA Championship continues to offer special exemptions for LIV players.
This year, Sergio Garcia and Joaquin Niemann have accepted invitations.
Masters officials have also offered Niemann a spot in the field at Augusta National.
LIV's new chief executive, Scott O'Neil, hailed the announcement last week by the USGA.
Of the R&A's decision, he said: "We thank Mark Darbon for his leadership and the R&A for taking this step for the benefit of moving golf forward.
"The Open Championship is one of the most prestigious events in all of sports.
"The acknowledgement that competitors from the LIV Golf League and the International Series will have the opportunity to play in golf's original major is a true testament to the strength of fields and the R&A's commitment to golf fans around the world.
"LIV will continue our mission to bring the best players to the four corners of the world to grow the game. We are excited for the future of this great sport."
More positive news for LIV Golf
This is the latest piece of good news for LIV.
Last week they announced a shock deal with ITV to show live action and highlights from its 14 events this year.
It followed another noteworthy partnership with Fox.
It means that LIV will be the only live free-to-air coverage of golf available in the UK.
Sky Sports shows live action and highlights of the DP World Tour, PGA Tour and TGL.
Niall Sloane, the director of ITV Sport, said: "This is an exciting time for LIV Golf as we look ahead to the innovative 2025 season.
"This partnership delivers free-to-air coverage for fans and we are delighted to welcome LIV Golf to ITV Sport."
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