Pinehurst, North Carolina – Tiger Woods, the fifteen-time major champion, has been granted a special exemption to participate in the upcoming U.S. Open at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club in North Carolina, as announced by the United States Golf Association. This exemption allows Woods, a three-time U.S. Open winner, to compete in the event after his previous exemption expired in 2023, marking the first time since 1996 that Woods did not qualify for a major championship.
His acceptance of the exemption comes as Woods aims to add to his impressive golfing resume, which includes nine USGA championships ranging from U.S. Junior Amateurs to U.S. Opens. The 124th U.S. Open is scheduled to take place on Pinehurst’s Course No. 2 from June 13-16, providing an exciting opportunity for Woods to showcase his talent on a renowned stage.
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, Woods stated, “The U.S. Open, our national championship, is a truly special event for our game and one that has helped define my career.” His presence in the competition has been hailed by USGA chief championships officer John Bodenhamer, who emphasized Woods’ significant contributions to the championship over the years.
In a recent interview, Woods revealed his intention to participate in one event per month, with the PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville being his next target following the U.S. Open. Despite facing challenges in recent competitions, Woods remains determined to make his mark in the upcoming major events scheduled in the coming months, including the Open Championship at Royal Troon Golf Course in Scotland.
Acknowledging Woods’ impact on the sport, Bodenhamer noted, “The story of the U.S. Open could not be written without Tiger Woods.” With his stellar performance at past events and his enduring legacy in golf, Woods continues to captivate fans and inspire fellow competitors. His upcoming participation in the U.S. Open adds an exciting element to the tournament and underscores his ongoing pursuit of excellence in the world of golf.