When the modern obsession with instant updates meets the enduring reverence for sporting icons, curious phenomena emerge.
In the realm of golf, it’s almost instinctive for those raised after the Baby Boomer era to assume that if Tiger Woods hasn’t achieved something, it simply hasn’t been achieved. Hence, the recent spotlight on a lesser-known concept: the Special Exemption, unrelated to tax laws or student loans.
Just last week, the U.S. Golf Association extended an invitation to Tiger for this year’s U.S. Open, set to unfold from June 13-16 at Pinehurst’s famed No. 2 course in North Carolina. This announcement prompted a collective gasp from Tiger’s faithful following and seasoned observers alike.
The incredulity was palpable: “Tiger Woods wasn’t automatically qualified for the U.S. Open? How time has flown.”
Indeed, time spares no one, even a legend like Tiger Woods.
In the realm of golf majors, the Masters and PGA Championship traditionally grant lifetime entry to past champions, albeit with the occasional caveat if a player’s skills decline notably. Meanwhile, the U.S. Open prides itself on its “Open” nature, with roughly a third of its field earning spots through local and regional qualifiers.
For established players, however, there exist multiple paths to eligibility, including a coveted 10-year exemption for previous winners. Tiger’s exemption stemming from his 2008 U.S. Open triumph expired in 2018. Yet, his victory at the 2019 Masters secured him automatic entry for another five years, carrying him through the 2023 edition—a tournament he missed, marking the third consecutive absence due to persistent physical challenges.
Yes, @TigerWoods has seen your tree memes 🤣 #FallonTonight pic.twitter.com/NaaxhAjfoL
— The Tonight Show (@FallonTonight) May 1, 2024
And so, as time marches on with its relentless stride, here we find ourselves amid another chapter in the saga of golf’s greats: Tiger Woods, seeking a special exemption. It’s hardly a surprise; expecting him to endure the rigors of a one-day, 36-hole qualifier would be akin to asking for the impossible.
While Tiger’s legions of fans may lament this milestone in his career, critics are quick to point out the potential for favoritism, perhaps a nod to broadcasters and promoters eager for his presence.
But let’s not forget, this isn’t an unprecedented occurrence. Special exemptions have a storied history in golf. The first was bestowed upon Ben Hogan, a four-time Open champion, back in 1966. And though there was an 11-year hiatus before the next, the USGA has not shied away from extending such privileges when warranted.
In 1977, they were especially generous, granting three exemptions to Sam Snead, Tommy Bolt, and Julius Boros. Arnold Palmer, too, found himself the recipient of such favors, accepting four consecutive exemptions starting in 1978. Even Jack Nicklaus, a titan of the sport, sought and received exemptions in the ’90s.
Yet, amidst these exemptions, Arnold Palmer remained true to his competitive spirit, often opting to earn his place through the crucible of the one-day qualifier. It’s a testament to the varied paths these legends have taken on their journeys through golf’s annals.
In 1969, just shy of turning 40, Arnold Palmer, known as “The King” of golf, found himself unexpectedly in the midst of a qualifier for the Open. Despite his illustrious career, Palmer had to battle through 36 holes at McKeesport alongside a colorful array of players with names reminiscent of radio DJs. Yet, he managed to secure a respectable sixth place in that year’s U.S. Open, with Orville Moody claiming victory.
Palmer’s journey didn’t end there. He maintained his eligibility through ’76, qualified again in ’77, and secured special exemptions from ’78 onwards. Even in his 50s, he continued attempting to qualify, albeit without success.
Contrastingly, Tiger Woods, a dominant force in golf, faces different expectations. However, his recent struggles at the Masters have sparked speculation about his future in the sport. Nevertheless, if Woods can master Pinehurst’s challenging greens, he has favorable conditions on his side, including warm weather and a relatively flat course compared to Augusta National.
Adding to the intrigue is a sliver of history. In 1990, Hale Irwin, despite being 11 years removed from his second U.S. Open victory, clinched the title at 45, making him the oldest Open champion. Though younger than Woods, Irwin was a testament to athleticism, having been a former two-time All Big Eight defensive back at Colorado.
Irwin’s triumph wasn’t without its challenges. At Medinah in ’90, he endured a grueling 91 holes, including a playoff and sudden death against Mike Donald.
As Woods gears up for the PGA Championship in Louisville, the Valhalla Golf Club presents its own set of difficulties amidst the Kentucky hardwoods. Whether Woods can reclaim his dominance in major championship golf remains to be seen.
