In the world of professional golf, the term “sponsor exemption” holds significant weight. It refers to the coveted opportunity for players to participate in a tournament without having to qualify.
This practice is common on major tours like the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, Korn Ferry Tour, and DP World Tour. Each tournament can grant up to eight sponsor exemptions, making these slots highly sought after.
Sponsor exemptions play a crucial role in boosting tournament interest and ticket sales. Tournament directors, who decide the recipients, often consider players who can attract large audiences—be it popular golfers, top college amateurs, or seasoned pros who have lost their tour status.