U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau and other American players associated with LIV Golf are now eligible for the Ryder Cup, following the inclusion of the Saudi-funded tour among the nine tours that receive PGA of America membership.
The interim CEO of the PGA of America, Kerry Haigh, clarified on Thursday that the participation of these players in the 2025 matches and beyond was never seriously in doubt. Recent speculations regarding players' eligibility prompted the organization to seek clarity on the matter.
The PGA of America offers 25 membership classes, with A-3 membership specifically designed for tour professionals worldwide. Haigh explained that LIV events were not initially considered for A-3 membership credit, but the PGA of America has now rectified this by extending credit to players participating in LIV tournaments, similar to nine other tours.
To maintain A-3 membership, players are required to pay annual dues of $120. The PGA of America emphasized its commitment to ensuring a strong field for the PGA Championship and providing the U.S. Ryder Cup team access to the best American players, hence allowing LIV Golf players to be eligible for both prestigious events.
All American players from LIV Golf are now eligible for the PGA Championship, and those who qualify for the Ryder Cup based on points or receive a captain's pick can compete in the tournament. Notably, LIV players have been invited to the PGA Championship in recent years, with Brooks Koepka being a captain's pick for the 2023 Ryder Cup after narrowly missing out on qualification.
U.S. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley expressed confidence in selecting the best 12 players for the team, emphasizing the importance of PGA membership for Ryder Cup eligibility. Meanwhile, the European tour mandates players to maintain membership to remain eligible for the Ryder Cup, as exemplified by Jon Rahm's current situation as he appeals his sanctions for participating in LIV Golf.
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