The R&A has announced that the leading LIV Golf League player already not exempt for the Open Championship will gain entry for the event at Royal Portrush this year.

The highest-ranked player in the top five of the LIV standings who hasn’t already qualified will be given the spot.

The 153rd Open takes place from 17-20 July this year at Portrush, six years after last hosting the event.

The USGA last week announced that the US Open, which takes place from 12-15 June at Oakmont Country Club, is also offering an exemption to one leading LIV player.

"The Open is a global championship for the best men's golfers and each year we review our exemptions to ensure we offer pathways into the championship based on results achieved on the leading professional tours," said Mark Darbon, the chief executive of the R&A, which runs The Open.

"We acknowledge that players competing in LIV Golf should also have the opportunity to secure places in The Open through its individual season standings as well as existing pathways.

"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."

BREAKING: More major pathways open for LIV Golf players#LIVGolf pic.twitter.com/6dzykHUDpo

— LIV Golf (@livgolf_league) February 10, 2025

LIV golfers such as Joaquin Niemann and Sergio Garcia have already been given special exemptions in the past.

Others such as Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau and Cameron Smith are all exempt for the Open due to their performances in past major championships.