One spot in the 156-player field for the June 12-15 U.S. Open in Oakmont, Pennsylvania will be awarded to a golfer who is not otherwise exempt and in the top three of the LIV Golf Individual Standings as of May 19.

The access will increase to two players for next year's U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills in Southampton, New York, with leading LIV Golf players from the final 2025 individual standings and the May 18, 2026 list gaining entry.

Seven LIV Golf players are exempt for the 2025 U.S Open including defending champion Bryson DeChambeau, former champions Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Jon Rahm, and recent major winners Phil Mickelson and Cameron Smith.

U.S Senior Open defending champion Richard Bland will also tee it up at Oakmont while Tyrrell Hatton is expected in the field based on other exemptions announced Wednesday.

The move is a significant carrot for the likes of Australians Marc Leishman, Lucas Herbert and Matt Jones, along with top LIV performers such as Talor Gooch, Joaquin Niemann and Louis Oosthuizen. 

In a statement, LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neill said: “We’re pleased that the USGA has formally created a new exemption for LIV Golf players to compete in the U.S Open and appreciate Mike Whan's leadership and commitment to growing the game of golf.

“Every golf fan in the world longs to see the greatest players in the world competing on golf’s biggest stages at the majors. LIV Golf is committed to working hand in hand with golf’s governing bodies to elevate the sport in all corners of the world.”

John Bodenhamer, USGA chief championships officer, said: “The USGA continues to evaluate the pathways that exist to ensure those playing their best have the opportunity to compete in our national championship.

“Consistent with our historical approach, we continuously evaluate talent levels on professional tours and in amateur events, which has led us to add a new exemption category."