DeChambeau gains Ryder Cup chance after US PGA LIV Golf decision

The PGA of America has officially recognized LIV Golf players as eligible for the US Ryder Cup team and the US PGA Championship. This decision allows players from the Saudi-funded league to gain membership in the organization, which is essential for participation in the Ryder Cup. Although these players will not accumulate qualifying points from LIV Golf events, it opens the door for prominent golfers like Bryson DeChambeau to compete in the upcoming Ryder Cup at Bethpage next year. Bryson DeChambeau, who recently won the US Open and finished as a runner-up in the US PGA Championship, is currently ranked third on the Ryder Cup points list. The PGA of America emphasized that this move aims to maintain a strong field for the PGA Championship and ensure that the best American players are available for the Ryder Cup. This decision aligns with previous instances where LIV Golf players participated in the PGA Championship. The interim chief executive of the PGA of America, Kerry Haigh, explained that the inclusion of LIV Golf in the list of approved tours simplifies the membership process for these players. Previously, LIV Golf players faced additional requirements that were not imposed on members of other tours. This change reflects a broader effort to integrate LIV Golf players into the traditional golf framework. The announcement also highlights the precedent set by Brooks Koepka, who was part of the US Ryder Cup team last year despite narrowly missing automatic qualification. The PGA of America’s decision is seen as a significant step towards inclusivity in professional golf, allowing for a more competitive and diverse Ryder Cup team.