Tiger Woods, the legendary golfer, will continue to be a familiar face at The Open Championship until he turns 60, thanks to a decision by the R&A (The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews).
This ruling stands despite a new policy that will reduce the exemption age for future champions to 55 starting in 2024. While this shift means that this year’s champion will have a shorter exemption period, Woods benefits from the old rule, allowing him to compete without qualifying for another 12 years.
Woods, who has won The Open Championship three times, will participate in the tournament this year, although his chances are hampered by numerous injuries. These physical challenges have made it difficult for him to perform at the highest level. However, fans will still have the joy of seeing him in action, particularly during iconic moments such as crossing the Swilcan Bridge at St Andrews. His ongoing participation warms the hearts of golf enthusiasts who cherish watching him play, even if his performance isn’t as dominant as it once was.
The scenario at other major tournaments varies for Woods. At the Masters, he enjoys a lifetime exemption as a past champion, a privilege not granted at the US Open, which only offers a ten-year exemption. Woods’ career has been punctuated by personal issues and a series of injuries, most notably a severe car accident in 2021 that resulted in multiple leg injuries. Remarkably, he returned to the sport at the Masters in April 2022, but his appearances have been inconsistent since then. Out of the seven majors he has entered since his comeback, he completed only two, either missing the cut or withdrawing from the rest.
Despite the physical toll and the pain he endures to compete, Woods remains determined to play. After the US Open in June, he hinted that his future participation in majors is uncertain. He expressed frustration at not being able to compete at his previous level, stating that making the cut is essential to having a chance to win. His current focus is on one more tournament this season, with no definite plans for a return after that.
As Woods gears up for The Open, attention shifts to other leading contenders like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Bryson DeChambeau. DeChambeau, in particular, will be affected by the new R&A rules, as many players from the LIV Golf circuit have faced difficulties securing major invites. However, DeChambeau’s participation is secured through his success on various tours and his two-time US Open champion status. This year’s event will see him and other top golfers compete under the evolving landscape of golf’s major championships.
