The Open Championship format and qualification


The Open Championship qualification was first introduced in 1907, and is the process that a player goes through to qualify for The Open Championship. The Open Championship is the oldest golf competition in the world, and generally regarded as one of the most prestigious. The qualifying structure is designed to reduce more than 2,500 entrants on five continents, to a field size of 156 competing in the tournament.
In the modern era, the main way players qualify is by an exemption due to their performance in major golf tours, major tournaments, or their position in the official world golf rankings. For those who are not exempt, they can qualify by performing well in the Open Qualifying Series of international sanctioned tournaments, or via local qualifying in the UK.
The format of the final tournament was originally 36 holes played on a single day, but has evolved to the current format of four days of 18 holes, with the lowest scoring golfers cut after the first 36 holes.

Current qualifying process

Players can qualify one of four ways, an exemption, via the Open Qualifying Series, via local qualifying, or if the field size has not reached 156, being one of the highest rated players in the official golf rankings that is not already qualified.

Exemption qualifiers

Around 65% of the field is exempt from qualifying. Not all those eligible for entry will compete.
The current criteria for an exemption is governed by the following rules:

Open Qualifying Series

Around 22% of the field qualify via the Open Qualifying Series. It was introduced in 2014 and replaced international qualifying events run by the Open. Qualifying is available to the leading players who finish in the top n and ties, in around twelve events run by several international golf tours. The Open Series Qualifying events since 2019 are:
''Note: 2021 tournament criteria affected by COVID-19''

Local and Final qualifying

Currently 12 players qualify through final qualifying in the United Kingdom.

Local Qualifying

Local qualifying begins with 15 events, of 18 holes occurring on a single day just over three weeks before the Open Championship. It is open to those who meet any of the following criteria:
A week later, the best performers then progress to final qualifying, where there are four events of 36 holes occurring on a single day, with three qualifiers from each event.

Final Qualifying

In addition to the best performers at local qualifying, players who meet the following criteria are able to compete in final qualifying:
''Note: Any qualifier via an amateur performance must still have amateur status''

[Monday qualifier]

On 2 December 2025, a Monday qualifier, the Last Chance Qualifier, was announced by The R&A. This Monday qualifier, held at the venue of The Open that ensuing Thursday, will determine the 156th position in The Open Championship. The following procedures will be used in determining who participates in the one-round match. Only the winner advances, and if necessary, a playoff will be held.
  • The top two players in the Official World Golf Ranking who have not qualified as of the week before the qualifier.
  • The runner-up in The Amateur Championship, provided the player is an amateur as of the qualifying tournament.
  • Players in Final Qualifying who made a playoff, but were eliminated.
  • Players in Final Qualifying who finished one position behind the final qualifier.
  • Players who were tied for a qualifying place in various events included as part of The Open Qualifying Series, but did not qualify due to a lower position in the Official World Golf Ranking
The first 12 players to accept, based on such criteria, will participate. Further alternates will be added should the two Official World Golf Ranking players who have not qualified are moved into the field by that Monday.

Alternates

If the field size has not reached 156, then the highest ranked players not already qualified are offered a spot in the Open. The two highest OWGR ranked golfers, followed by the results of the Monday qualifier will determine initial slots in the alternate list.

Current format

  • Field: 156 players
  • Basic format: 72 hole stroke play. Play 18 holes a day over four days, weather permitting.
  • Date of tournament: Starts on the day before the third Friday in July.
  • Tournament days: Thursday to Sunday.
  • Tee off times: Each player has one morning and one afternoon tee time in first two days in groups of three, which are mostly randomised. Groupings of two on the last two days with last place going off first and leaders going out last.
  • Cut: After 36 holes, only top 70 and ties play the final 36 holes.
  • Playoff: If there is a tie for the lead after 72 holes, a four-hole aggregate playoff is held; followed by sudden death if the lead is still tied.

    History of qualification and format

Qualifying was first introduced from 1907, except 1910–1911, where a 36 hole cut was made instead. 1926 was the first year where there was both a cut and qualifying, and this has been the situation ever since. Qualifying generally happened the day before or shortly before the Open, and everyone was required to qualify until 1962. In 1963 exemptions from qualification began, mainly for past champions, but this has now expanded to cover a multitude of achievements and most of the field now qualify by exemption. In the 1980s, the R&A was concerned that its process was not adequately allowing for players which played on multiple tours, and so actively brought about what is now known as the Official World Golf Ranking to use as part of the exemption process.
In 2004 international qualifying was introduced, which meant that players did not have to travel to the UK to participate in qualifying. This was replaced in 2014 by the Open Qualifying Series, which gave qualifying spots to the best performers in existing global golf events.
The biggest change to the format of the tournament was in 1892 when the tournament was expanded from 36 holes to 72 holes. Another notable change in the rules was making it mandatory to use the 1.68 inch diameter ball in 1974 instead of the 1.62 inch diameter ball, which was entirely eliminated by the 1990 revision to the Rules of Golf.
YearEditionField sizeEntryFormatCutPlayoff
2023151th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. Open Qualifying Series. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Three-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2022150th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. Open Qualifying Series. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Three-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2021149th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. Open Qualifying Series. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Three-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2020Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. Open Qualifying Series. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Three-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2019148th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. Open Qualifying Series. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Three-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2018147th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. Open Qualifying Series. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2017146th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. Open Qualifying Series. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2016145th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. Open Qualifying Series. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2015144th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. Open Qualifying Series. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2014143rd156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. Open Qualifying Series. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2013142nd156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. International Qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2012141st156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. International Qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2011140th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. International Qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2010139th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. International Qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2009138th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. International Qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2008137th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 60 and under. Local qualifying. International Qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2007136th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. International Qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2006135th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. International Qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2005134th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. International Qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2004133rd156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. International Qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2003132nd156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2002131st156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2001130th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
2000129th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1999128th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1998127th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1997126th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1996125th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1995124th159Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions aged 65 and under. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1994123rd156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions under 65. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1993122nd156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions under 65. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1992121st156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions under 65. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1991120th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions under 65. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1990119th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions under 65. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1989118th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions under 65. Local qualifying. Total of 156 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1988117th153Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions under 65. Local qualifying. Total of 153 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1987116th153Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions under 65. Local qualifying. Total of 153 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1986115th153Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions under 65. Local qualifying. Total of 153 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.Four-hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1985114th153Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions under 65. Local qualifying. Total of 153 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1984113th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions under 65. Local qualifying. Total of 153 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1983112th151Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1982111th150Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1981110th153Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1980109th151Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Thursday to Sunday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1979108th152Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1978107th155Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties. Those within 10 shots of the leader not cut.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1977106th156Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1976105th155Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1975104th153Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1974103rd154Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1973102nd153Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Play in groups of 3 in first 2 days. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1972101st153Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
1971100th150Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 150 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 60 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
197099th134Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Total of 130 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 80 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 55 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
196998th130Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Playoff for those tied for final places. Total of 130 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 45 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
196897th130Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including all previous Open champions. Local qualifying. Playoff for those tied for final places. Total of 130 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 70 and ties. Cut after 54 holes, top 45 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
196796th130Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including past 10 Open champions. Local qualifying. Playoff for those tied for final places. Total of 130 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 55 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
196695th130Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including past 10 Open champions. Local qualifying. Playoff for those tied for final places. Total of 130 qualify.72 holes over 4 days. 18 holes a day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Saturday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 55 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
196594th130Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including past 10 Open champions. Local qualifying. Playoff for those tied for final places. Total of 130 qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 45 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
196493rd120Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including past 10 Open champions. Local qualifying in two separate competition. Two courses near the Open venue are used but not the Open venue itself. Playoff for those tied for final places. Total of 120 qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 45 and ties.18 hole playoff followed by sudden death.
196392nd120Exemption from qualifying for the leading players including past 10 Open champions. Local qualifying in two separate competition. Two courses near the Open venue are used but not the Open venue itself. Playoff for those tied for final places. Total of 120 qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, top 45 and ties.36 hole playoff.
196291st119Local qualifying. Maximum of 120 players qualify. Ties for 120th place did not qualify72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
196190th108Local qualifying. Maximum of 120 players qualify. Ties for 120th place did not qualify72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
196089th74Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
195988th90Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
195887th96Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
195786th96Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday. Leaders go off last after 36 holes.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
195685th96Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
195584th94Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
195483rd97Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
195382nd91Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
195281st96Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
195180th98Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 50 players. Ties for 50th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
195079th93Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes., maximum of 40 players. Ties for 40th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
194978th96Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes., maximum of 40 players. Ties for 40th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
194877th97Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes., maximum of 40 players. Ties for 40th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
194776th100Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes., maximum of 40 players. Ties for 40th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
194675th100Local qualifying. Maximum of 100 players qualify. Ties for 100th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes., maximum of 40 players. Ties for 40th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
1945Local qualifying. Maximum of 130 players qualify. Ties for 130th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 44 players. Ties for 44th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
1944Local qualifying. Maximum of 130 players qualify. Ties for 130th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 44 players. Ties for 44th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
1943Local qualifying. Maximum of 130 players qualify. Ties for 130th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 44 players. Ties for 44th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
1942Local qualifying. Maximum of 130 players qualify. Ties for 130th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 44 players. Ties for 44th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
1941Local qualifying. Maximum of 130 players qualify. Ties for 130th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 44 players. Ties for 44th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
1940Local qualifying. Maximum of 130 players qualify. Ties for 130th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 44 players. Ties for 44th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
193974th129Local qualifying. Maximum of 130 players qualify. Ties for 130th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 44 players. Ties for 44th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
193873rd120Local qualifying. Maximum of 130 players qualify. Ties for 130th place did not qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, maximum of 40 players. Ties for 40th place do not make the cut.36 hole playoff.
193772nd141Local qualifying. Top 140 and ties qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, top 40 and ties.36 hole playoff.
193671st107Local qualifying. Top 100 and ties qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, top 60 and ties.36 hole playoff.
193570th109Local qualifying. Top 100 and ties qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, top 60 and ties.36 hole playoff.
193469th101Local qualifying. Top 100 and ties qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, top 60 and ties.36 hole playoff.
193368th117Local qualifying. Top 100 and ties qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, top 60 and ties.36 hole playoff.
193267th110Local qualifying. Top 100 and ties qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, top 60 and ties.36 hole playoff.
193166th109Local qualifying. Top 100 and ties qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, top 60 and ties.36 hole playoff.
193065th112Local qualifying. Top 100 and ties qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, top 60 and ties.36 hole playoff.
192964th109Local qualifying. Top 100 and ties qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes, top 60 and ties, and those within 14 strokes.36 hole playoff.
192863rd113Local qualifying. Top 100 and ties qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes. Those 15 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded from the final day.36 hole playoff.
192762nd108Local qualifying. Top 100 and ties qualify.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes. Those 15 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded from the final day.36 hole playoff.
192661st117Regional qualifying used. Total of 101 and ties qualify at one of three venues.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day. Days standardised as Wednesday to Friday.Cut after 36 holes. Those 15 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded from the final day.36 hole playoff.
192560th83Local qualifying using two courses. Generally the Championship course is used together with a nearby course. Top 80 and ties qualify.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
192459th86Local qualifying using two courses. Generally the Championship course is used together with a nearby course. Top 80 and ties qualify.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
192358th88Local qualifying using two courses. Generally the Championship course is used together with a nearby course. Top 80 and ties qualify.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
192257th80Local qualifying using two courses. Generally the Championship course is used together with a nearby course. Top 80 and ties qualify.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
192156th85Local qualifying using two courses. Generally the Championship course is used together with a nearby course. Top 80 and ties qualify.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
192055th82Separate qualifying for amateurs and professionals. Amateurs qualify at the Open venue. Professionals qualified using two courses in Surrey. Top 72 and ties qualify.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
1919Qualifying over two days using two local courses. Exactly 100 players qualify. 18-hole playoff the following day for those tied for final places.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
1918Qualifying over two days using two local courses. Exactly 100 players qualify. 18-hole playoff the following day for those tied for final places.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
1917Qualifying over two days using two local courses. Exactly 100 players qualify. 18-hole playoff the following day for those tied for final places.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
1916Qualifying over two days using two local courses. Exactly 100 players qualify. 18-hole playoff the following day for those tied for final places.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
1915Qualifying over two days using two local courses. Exactly 100 players qualify. 18-hole playoff the following day for those tied for final places.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
191454th100Qualifying over two days using two local courses. Exactly 100 players qualify. 18-hole playoff the following day for those tied for final places.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
191353rd65Players play 36 championship course holes on one of three days. Top 20 and ties qualify on each day.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
191252nd62Players play 36 championship course holes on one of three days. Top 20 and ties qualify on each day.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
191151st226No qualifying.72 holes over 4 days. 36 spread over 3 days, 36 on the 4th day.Cut after 36 holes, top 60 and ties make the cut.36 hole playoff.
191050th210No qualifying.72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day.Cut after 36 holes, top 60 and ties make the cut.36 hole playoff.
190949th6936 championship course hole qualifying in 2 groups. 30 from each group qualify. At least 30 pros in each group.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
190848th6536 championship course hole qualifying in 2 groups. 30 from each group qualify.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
190747th6736 championship course hole qualifying in 2 groups. 30 from each group qualify.72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No cut.36 hole playoff.
190646th181No Qualifying72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day.Cut after 36 holes. Those 15 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded.36 hole playoff.
190545th148No Qualifying72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day.Cut after 36 holes. Those 15 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded.36 hole playoff.
190444th144No Qualifying72 holes over 3 days. 18 holes on the first 2 days, 36 on the 3rd day.Cut after 36 holes. Those 20 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded.36 hole playoff.
190343rd124No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.Cut after 36 holes. Those 20 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded.36 hole playoff.
190242nd112No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.Cut after 36 holes. Those 20 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded.36 hole playoff.
190141st100No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.Cut after 36 holes. Those 20 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded.36 hole playoff.
190040th81No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.Cut after 36 holes. Those 20 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded.36 hole playoff.
189939th98No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.Cut after 36 holes. Those 20 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded.36 hole playoff.
189838th76No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.Cut after 36 holes. Those 20 or more strokes behind the leader are excluded.36 hole playoff.
189737th88No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
189636th63No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
189535th73No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
189434th94No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
189333rd72No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
189232nd60No Qualifying72 holes over 2 days. 36 holes on each day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
189131st84No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
189030th39No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
188929th48No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
188828th50No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
188727th40No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
188626th42No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
188525th60No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
188424th28No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
188323rd34No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
188222nd40No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
188121st22No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
188020th30No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
187919th47No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
187818th27No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
187717th24No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
187616th34No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
187515th18No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
187414th32No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
187313th27No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
187212th8No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
1871No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
187011th20No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
186910th14No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
18689th12No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
18678th14No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
18667th16No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
18656th12No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
18645th16No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
18634th14No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
18623rd8No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
18612nd18No Qualifying36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.
18601st8Invitational36 holes over 1 day.No Cut.36 hole playoff.