Austria’s Sepp Straka will keep his DP World Tour membership for the 2026 season despite being unable to meet the usual participation requirements.
Players are typically required to compete in at least four DP World Tour events to retain membership and remain eligible for Ryder Cup selection. However, due to Straka’s “serious personal circumstances,” the Tour’s chief executive, Guy Kinnings, has reduced his requirement from four events to two.
Straka’s second son, Thomas, was born prematurely in August and has been receiving intensive care since birth. The situation forced Straka to withdraw from the BMW Championship earlier this year and, more recently, from the upcoming Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, part of the DP World Tour playoffs.
“In recognition of his serious personal circumstances since August, which have understandably impacted his ability to travel and compete globally, the DP World Tour has amended Sepp’s minimum counting tournament obligation from four events to two,” a spokesperson confirmed. “We continue to offer our full support and best wishes to Sepp and his family.”
Straka, who represented Team Europe in their dramatic Ryder Cup win over the United States at Bethpage Black in September, expressed gratitude for the support he and his family have received.
“We are immensely grateful to the dedicated medical teams who have cared for Thomas and helped him grow stronger after his early arrival,” Straka said. “I will be withdrawing from both the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship and the DP World Tour Championship to focus on my family during this important time. I need to be in Alabama to support Paige and ensure we give Thomas the best start possible as he transitions from NICU to home.”
He also extended his best wishes to fellow players competing in the upcoming playoff events, adding that he looks forward to returning to competition soon.
The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship takes place from November 6–9.
Leave a Reply