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French Open to count as two starts toward membership

Facing a crowded schedule next summer, the European Tour announced enhancements to the 2016 Alstom Open de France designed to lure players to one of the circuit's longest-running events.

The prize purse will be increased from 3 million to 3.5 million euros, while additional points will be available for both the European points list and world points list for Europeans vying for a spot on the 2016 Ryder Cup squad. Perhaps more importantly, the event will count as two starts for European Tour members, who now must make only five total starts in Europe outside of the majors and WGC events.