The R&A has laid out the path for playing the Last-Chance Qualifier, the new and explosive format that will decide who completes the field for The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale. Twelve players. Eighteen holes and one single spot available. Guaranteed drama. A Monday qualifier in a Major.
This Tuesday, the eligibility criteria for the Last-Chance Qualifier have been revealed. The tournament will take place on Monday 13 July, just three days before the last Major of the year begins, and will feature 12 players competing for the final ticket.
This new event is part of a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing the fan experience during Open week, adding an extra component of drama and excitement to the tournament’s lead-up.
The Last-Chance Qualifier will be played over 18 holes stroke play at Royal Birkdale itself. Participants will gain entry according to a set of criteria consistent with the usual qualification processes for The Open. The field of 12 players will be formed following this sequence until the quota is filled:
- The top two non-exempt players from the Official World Golf Ranking published as of Monday 6 July.
- The runner-up of the Amateur Championship, provided they maintain their amateur status on 13 July.
- Players eliminated in playoffs during the Final Qualifying.
- Players who finished one place away from qualifying in the Final Qualifying.
- Tied in qualifying positions within Open Qualifying Series events (except Scotland) who did not secure a spot due to a lower world ranking.
Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, Chief Championships Officer of The R&A, has highlighted that this new format will offer “high-quality competitive golf” and generate “drama and intrigue” by deciding the last available spot. He also emphasises that all participants will have reached Royal Birkdale “on their own merits”.
Additionally, on Tuesday 14 July, the first edition of the Heroes Classic will take place, a festive short-format event bringing together players qualified for the Open alongside special guests who represent the values of golf. More excitement for the show.
The huge demand in the ticket ballot process for the Open has already left the capacity almost sold out. However, due to increased capacity, there are still limited tickets available to attend the Last-Chance Qualifier and the Heroes Classic.
