Masters and British Open Update Entry Rules To Increase Global Player Mix

Two of golf's biggest events have announced new qualification pathways. Augusta National Golf Club and The Royal and Ancient Golf Club will now give invitations to winners from six key tournaments worldwide for both the Masters and The Open starting in 2026.

Winners at the South African Open, Australian Open, Japan Open, Spanish Open, Hong Kong Open, and Scottish Open will receive invitations to these prestigious events. This shift cuts out automatic spots that PGA Tour fall winners used to receive for the Masters.

"The Masters Tournament has long recognized the significance of having international representation among its invitees," said Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley, according to Forbes. "We, along with The R&A, have a shared commitment to the global game and are proud to work together."

Several PGA Tour events could be impacted. These include the Procore Championship, Sanderson Farms Championship, Baycurrent Classic, Bank of Utah Championship, World Wide Technology Championship, Butterfield Bermuda Championship and RSM Classic.

The change opens new doors for LIV Golf competitors. Though banned from PGA Tour play, they can now earn Masters invites through these national tournaments. 

The 90th Masters starts on April 9, 2026. The 154th Open Championship follows at Royal Birkdale, England, kicking off on July 16, 2026.