The U.S. Open, known for being the most open of any Open championship, is seeing a decline in the number of qualifiers. This year, only 62 spots were available in final qualifying, down from 80 players who had to earn their way to the 156-man field at Oakmont ten years ago.

Changing Landscape in Golf

The USGA has been trying to get all the right players by adding exemptions based on performance at the PGA Tour, European tour, and LIV Golf. However, this has led to a decrease in the number of qualifiers, with some arguing that it’s getting away from the U.S. Open’s roots.

David Fay, former USGA executive director, once said, “It’s not the best field in golf. It never pretended to be. It’s the most democratic championship.” The U.S. Open still prides itself on being the most open, but the numbers tell a different story.

Qualifying Spots

This year, the USGA set aside seven spots for players who potentially can qualify through the top 60 in the world ranking after this week. The U.S. Open still has a right to boast of being the most open of Open championships around the world, but it would do well not to get too far away from that.

There’s no need to go down the path of the British Open, which established the “Open Qualifying Series” at tournaments around the world. The U.S. Open should focus on keeping its qualifying process intact, allowing more players to earn their way into the championship.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.