[PHOTO: Richard Heathcote/R&A]
The R&A announced that it will host a “last chance” on-site qualifier for the Open Championship beginning next year.
Golf’s oldest major will introduce a 12-player playoff for the final spot in the 2026 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, mirroring the Monday qualifier format traditionally used in PGA Tour events. This “winner-takes-all” competition responds directly to fan survey feedback requesting more live golf coverage, according to the R&A.
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The timing is particularly notable given that Monday qualifiers have been increasingly eliminated or scaled back across professional tournaments in recent years.
“The Open is one of the world’s great sporting events and recognised worldwide for the special atmosphere generated by the tens of thousands of fans who attend the championship each year,” said new R&A chief executive Mark Darbon. “We have asked them how we can make their experience of attending The Open even more enjoyable and they have been clear – they want more live golf, more opportunities to engage with the traditions of golf’s original championship and more activities on-site to watch, listen and play.
“As a result, we have introduced new features which we believe will elevate The Open for fans, particularly on the days leading up to the championship.”
The governing body is also introducing the Heroes Classic, which will pit former Open champions and a number of special guests in a short-format challenge on the Tuesday of Open week. And on the Sunday before Open week, the fan village will screen the men’s final of Wimbledon as well as the final round of the Genesis Scottish Open.
This year’s Open Championship begins on July 17 at Royal Portrush. Xander Schauffele is the defending champion.
