The Masters is set to welcome more international players following a landmark agreement with The R&A to introduce a joint qualification system with The Open.
Augusta National and The R&A confirmed that, effective immediately, winners and leading finishers from select national Opens across the world will now receive invitations to both The Masters and The Open Championship.
The move mirrors the success of The Open Qualifying Series, which has long provided global pathways into golf’s oldest major. Masters chairman Fred Ridley, who has frequently praised the system, said the new alignment reflects a shared commitment to broadening opportunities for elite talent.
“The Masters Tournament has always valued international representation,” Ridley said. “This collaboration with The R&A ensures that exceptional players from historic national Opens around the world can earn their place in both majors. It shines a spotlight on their achievements and strengthens the global game.”
R&A chief executive Mark Darbon echoed that view, stressing the importance of expanding access. “We are proud of the range of qualification routes offered through The Open Qualifying Series, and working alongside Augusta National to extend this opportunity to The Masters is a natural progression,” he said. “This will create outstanding opportunities for players in every region and further enrich the quality of both championships.”
The full schedule of qualifying events and exemptions for the 154th Open will be released in September.
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