Anthony Kim’s Major Chances: How LIV Win Could Qualify Him for 2026 Opens & Masters

Anthony Kim delivered a stunning victory at the 2026 LIV Golf Adelaide event, marking a monumental comeback for the golfer. It was his first professional win in 16 years, achieved after overcoming significant challenges since his return to the sport two years ago. Kim’s performance surpassed that of Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau, solidifying the significance of his achievement.

A Path Back to the Majors

Kim’s resurgence isn’t limited to LIV Golf; it opens potential pathways for him to compete in the major championships for the first time since 2011. Thanks to recent changes and exemptions, he is currently positioned to qualify for both the U.S. Open and the Open Championship.

Did You Know? Anthony Kim’s final-round score at LIV Golf Adelaide was a bogey-free 63, propelling him to a three-shot victory over Jon Rahm.

The Masters Tournament

Qualifying for the Masters, set for April 9-12 at Augusta National, presents the biggest hurdle. Kim must climb to within the Top 50 of the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) by April 6th. He previously achieved his best major finish at the Masters in 2010, with a T3 result.

A recent rule change recognizing LIV Golf within the OWGR system offers a boost. The top-10 finishers in LIV events now earn world ranking points. Kim jumped from 847th to 203rd in the OWGR following his Adelaide win, but still needs to gain 153 spots to qualify for the Masters.

PGA Championship Prospects

Kim’s chances for the PGA Championship, held in May at Aronimink, are more attainable. Traditionally, players ranked within the Top 100 of the OWGR qualify. What we have is a less stringent requirement than the Masters, giving Kim more time to improve his ranking.

U.S. Open Qualification

The U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills offers multiple avenues for Kim to qualify. A Top 60 ranking in the OWGR by May 18th would secure his spot. A new exemption for LIV players awards a spot to the top player, not otherwise exempt, in the top 3 of the 2026 LIV Golf Individual Standings as of May 18th.

Currently, Kim sits in second place in the LIV Individual Standings, trailing only Jon Rahm. He could also earn a spot through local exemptions awarded to the top 10 players in the LIV standings.

Expert Insight: The recognition of LIV Golf by the OWGR is a pivotal factor in Kim’s potential return to major championships, providing a clear pathway for him to regain competitive standing within the sport.

The Open Championship

Similar to the U.S. Open, the 2026 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale offers qualification through the OWGR, with spots awarded to the Top 50 players as of late May. The R&A is also offering a LIV-specific exemption to the first player, not otherwise exempt, in the 2026 LIV Golf Individual Season Standings on completion of LIV Golf Louisiana.

Kim is currently in a position to earn this exemption, holding the No. 2 rank in the LIV Individual standings. Maintaining this position through the end of LIV Golf Louisiana on June 28th will be crucial for securing his place in the Open.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Anthony Kim’s final-round score at the LIV Golf Adelaide event?

Anthony Kim shot a bogey-free 9-under 63 in the final round of the LIV Golf Adelaide event.

How did the Official World Golf Ranking change regarding LIV Golf?

The OWGR officially recognised LIV Golf ahead of the 2026 season, meaning the top-10 finishers in LIV events now earn world ranking points.

What is Anthony Kim’s current ranking in the LIV Golf Individual Standings?

After his win at LIV Adelaide, Anthony Kim sits in second place in the LIV Golf Individual standings, behind only Jon Rahm.

Given his recent success and the evolving qualification criteria, what impact do you think Anthony Kim’s comeback will have on the landscape of professional golf?