Massive Masters & Open Championship Automatic Entry Boost For Six National Opens Including Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, Scottish, Spanish & South African Opens

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In a massive boost for men’s golf and the winners of the six national Open’s – the Australian, Scottish, Spanish, Japan, Hong Kong and South African Open’s will earn automatic entry into the Masters and also The Open.

This historic move, particularly including The Masters, builds on The R&A’s long-standing and successful Open Qualifying Series and will ensure strong international pathways into both major championships from several professional tours, recognizing the global strength of elite professional golf. 

“The Masters Tournament has long recognized the significance of having international representation among its invitees,” said Fred Ridley, Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament.

“We, along with The R&A, have a shared commitment to the global game and are proud to work together. Today’s announcement strengthens our organizations’ collective vision of rewarding top talent around the world who rise to the top of historic national open championships. We hope this formal recognition shines a bright light on these players and the events they will represent at the Masters and The Open, beginning next year.” 

The Open Qualifying Series has been in operation since 2013 and offers players entry into The Open through prestigious Tour events across the world. Beginning later this year players can qualify for The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale through 15 events in 13 countries. 

The Australian Open, Scottish Open and South African Open do provide an invitation into golf’s oldest major but not the Masters.

“We take great pride in the range of qualification routes we offer to players around the world through The Open Qualifying Series,” said Mark Darbon, chief executive of The R&A.

“We share the same goal as Augusta National to offer places in both The Open and the Masters to players competing in national opens and by doing so to help to showcase and strengthen our sport in those regions.

“This creates an outstanding opportunity for players in all parts of the world to qualify and we firmly believe this will continue to enrich the quality of the fields in both major championships.”

The 2026 Masters will be the 90th playing of the famous contest, and is scheduled for April 6 – 12, where Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy will defend his title that saw him clinch a career grand slam.

The 154th Open is scheduled for July 12 – 19 at Royal Birkdale. 



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