He chose LIV Golf over the PGA Tour. Now he earned a Masters invite
Tom McKibbin drew international attention when he opted to join LIV Golf instead of the PGA Tour. On Sunday, the Northern Irish golfer triumphed at the Hong Kong Open, securing an invitation to the 2026 Masters.
From LIV to Major Opportunity
When McKibbin turned down the PGA Tour in favor of LIV Golf, it seemed he was giving up an easier avenue to the major tournaments. Since LIV Golf still doesn’t provide Official World Golf Ranking points, players face challenges qualifying for majors through traditional ranking routes.
Victory in Hong Kong
McKibbin compensated for this by competing in select global events, including his debut on the Asian Tour. Entering the final round with a one-shot lead, he ultimately extended that margin to seven, finishing with an impressive 27 under par.
The 22-year-old sealed the victory with a final-round score of 63, following an opening round of 60. His performance not only granted him the Hong Kong Open title but also invitations to both the 2026 Masters and the Open Championship under newly updated qualification rules.
McKibbin on His Achievement
“Very excited to go back and play my third Open, it will be very, very cool,” McKibbin said. “And to have that drive down Magnolia Lane for the first time ever, it will be even more special. You know, I think sort of historic tournaments like this deserve those spots, and yeah, it’s great to sort of take advantage of those.”
American golfer Peter Uihlein finished second, trailing by seven shots.
Author’s Summary
Tom McKibbin’s bold decision to join LIV Golf paid off as his decisive Hong Kong Open victory secured invites to the 2026 Masters and Open Championships.