USGA Opens Door for LIV Golf Players as Riyadh Air Joins as Major Sponsor

In a landmark shift for professional golf, the United States Golf Association (USGA) has announced direct exemptions for LIV Golf players into the U.S. Open, marking the first time a major championship has formally recognized LIV Golf standings as a qualification pathway. Additionally, Riyadh Air has signed a multi-year partnership with LIV Golf, further cementing the league’s growing global influence.

USGA Creates U.S. Open Pathway for LIV Golf Players

For the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont, the top-ranked player in the 2025 LIV Golf Individual Standings as of May 19, 2025, who is not otherwise exempt, will receive a full exemption into the prestigious major championship.

“We’re pleased that the USGA has formally created a new exemption for LIV Golf players and appreciate Mike Whan’s leadership in growing the game,” said LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil. “Every golf fan longs to see the best players competing on golf’s biggest stages.”

Beginning in 2026 at Shinnecock Hills, the U.S. Open will also grant exemptions to the top three players in the final LIV Golf standings, ensuring continued access to the major championship for top LIV competitors. In addition, local exemptions will be introduced for LIV players over the next two years.

USGA chief championships officer John Bodenhamer emphasized the importance of evolving qualification pathways:

“Consistent with our historical approach, we continuously evaluate talent levels on professional tours, leading us to add a new exemption category.”

Seven LIV Golf players, including Bryson DeChambeau, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, Jon Rahm, Phil Mickelson, Cameron Smith, and Richard Bland, are already exempt for the 2025 U.S. Open, further integrating LIV talent into the major championship field.

Riyadh Air and LIV Golf: A Groundbreaking Partnership

At King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas and LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil officially announced a multi-year sponsorship deal, marking Riyadh Air’s increasing commitment to sports sponsorship. Some of LIV Golf’s biggest names, including Bryson DeChambeau, Sergio Garcia, Dustin Johnson, Joaquin Niemann, and Jon Rahm, participated in the launch event.

“We are incredibly excited to partner with LIV Golf, a league that is transforming the sport with its exciting format and commitment to global growth,” said Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our values of innovation, excellence, and community engagement.”

Scott O’Neil echoed these sentiments, stating:

“We are proud to tee off the 2025 LIV Golf season with an innovative and forward-thinking partner in Riyadh Air. This partnership shares a commitment to delivering a best-in-class experience for golf fans around the world.”

Starting with the season-opening LIV Golf event in Riyadh, Riyadh Air will feature on-course branding, hospitality, TV placements, and a significant presence at 14 global events spanning Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America.

Set to begin its airline services in 2025, Riyadh Air has been expanding its sports partnerships, already securing deals with Atlético de Madrid, Concacaf, and the WTA Finals in Riyadh before adding LIV Golf to its growing portfolio.

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