Sergio Garcia’s missed three-foot birdie putt at the Asian Tour’s International Series Macau event cost him a spot in the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush. Despite a fourth-place finish, Garcia failed to qualify for the Open, while his LIV mates Carlos Ortiz, Patrick Reed, and Jason Kokrak secured spots in the tournament. Ortiz’s win at the event marked his second career start in a major championship. Reed, who finished second, expressed disappointment but was grateful for the opportunity to play in his 10th Open.
In response to limited avenues for major championship qualifications for LIV players due to world rankings issues, the R&A’s Open Qualifying Series in Macau provided an opportunity for LIV players to earn a spot in the Open without relying on local qualifying or standings exemptions. Garcia, currently third in the LIV standings, has a chance to qualify for the Open and U.S. Open through a new exemption given to the top player in the LIV standings after the league’s Dallas event in June. Despite missing out on a spot in the Open through Macau, Garcia still has a chance to make it to the tournament with consistent performance on LIV.
Ortiz’s victory at Macau came after he quickly distanced himself from the competition with early birdies and an eagle on the par-5 12th hole. Reed acknowledged his disappointment at not winning but was pleased with his performance and the opportunity to play in the Open. With 20 LIV players competing in the event, the tournament provided a crucial opportunity for players to qualify for the major championship. Garcia, having won the LIV Hong Kong event, is among the top players in the LIV standings and is well-positioned to earn a spot in the Open and U.S. Open through the new exemption.
Garcia’s missed three-foot birdie putt on the final hole of the Macau event cost him a spot in the Open, highlighting the unpredictable nature of golf. Despite a fourth-place finish, Garcia remains determined to secure a place in the major championships through consistent performance on LIV. His fellow LIV players Ortiz, Reed, and Kokrak secured spots in the Open, showcasing the talent within the league. With limited pathways to major championships for LIV players, events like the R&A’s Open Qualifying Series provide vital opportunities for players like Garcia to earn their place in prestigious tournaments.
