On September 24th, 2025, we break down the R&A's landmark decision to grant an Open exemption to a LIV golfer, Luke Donald's mentorship from Michael Jordan, and player updates from Xander Schauffele and Jon Rahm.

THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

• The R&A has officially created a new exemption category for The Open, starting in 2026. The leading player in the LIV Golf Individual Standings after their Louisiana event will earn a coveted spot at Royal Birkdale.
• The official wording states the spot goes to: "The first player and anyone tying for that place, not otherwise exempt..."
• This move marks a significant, albeit small, step in bridging the gap between the traditional tours and the LIV Golf circuit, offering a direct merit-based pathway into golf's oldest major.

RYDER CUP PREP

• European Captain Luke Donald is turning to an unlikely source for leadership advice: basketball icon Michael Jordan. Donald is focused on building a cohesive unit, emphasizing the importance of a "championship team" over a "team of champions."
• Donald's philosophy: "We're always stronger together."
• The great irony is that after mentoring the European captain, the fiercely competitive Jordan will be passionately cheering for Team USA when the matches begin.

Quick Hits

New dad Xander Schauffele is back, confirming his son Victor was *not* named after Viktor Hovland • Jon Rahm is taking on a dozen-donut challenge, quipping the golf is harder: "It's just shooting nine under, that's an issue."

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