British Open Will Not Ban LIV Golfers
The golf world is waiting to see how the four major championships handle LIV golfers seeking to play.
At least for one of the majors, we have an answer.
In an interview with Golf Digest, R&A chief Martin Slumbers says they are not banning LIV Golfers from playing.
“We’re not banning anyone,” Slumbers said.
The defending British Open Champion is Cam Smith, who is now a LIV Golfer, so banning LIV players would certainly be a bit awkward.
“We are not going to betray 150 years of history and have the Open not be open. The name says it all, and that’s important. What we will do is ensure that there are appropriate pathways and ways to qualify. I’m looking forward to seeing reigning Champion Golfer of the Year Cam Smith tee-up around 9:40 a.m. on the first day of the Open next year,” Slumbers added.
Slumbers told Golf Digest that the R&A will go public with its stance in January or February.
The PGA Tour has banned all players who joined LIV.
The Official World Golf Rankings appear to be slow playing their decision on whether or not LIV Golfers should get ranking points.