Infuriated Talor Gooch Keeps Year-Long USGA Feud Alive Amid LIV Golfers’ Last-Ditch ‘Qualification’ Attempt

Talor Gooch appears to be holding onto a grudge, but against whom? A month ago, when asked about his participation in the US Open qualifiers, Gooch simply replied, “I’m not.” Surprisingly, he indeed did not compete. Interestingly, other players such as Bubba Watson, Graeme McDowell, Anirban Lahiri, and more also opted not to attempt the qualifiers at that time.

Following the PGA Championship, it seems the LIV golfers have been granted another opportunity. Will Talor Gooch take it? Well, the response remains unchanged. What could be the reason behind Gooch’s choice?

Talor Gooch refuses to take the last chance to qualify for the US Open

Even though LIV golfers have encountered difficulties with major tournaments, they retain the option to attempt the US Open qualifiers. Currently, at the Bear’s Club in Florida, the final US Open qualifiers are underway, with 17 LIV golfers prepared to give their best shot. It’s notable that professionals like Anirban Lahiri and Graeme McDowell, who missed their chance in May, are now on the field, competing for a spot at Pinehurst.

However, surprisingly, Talor Gooch is absent from the list, according to a post by @thegolfeditor on X. This absence might be attributed to Gooch’s experiences in 2023. Last year, the three-time LIV golf winner was expected to compete at the Los Angeles Country Club marking his third appearance in the event. Although his prospects seemed promising, the USGA introduced a last-minute rule change.

Initially, it was stated that any player qualifying for the 2022 Tour Championship would participate. However, they later revised this to specify that mere eligibility would not guarantee a spot in the U.S. Open; the golfer must also be a member of the PGA Tour. This rule just affected one golfer, and yes that was Gooch.

Initially qualified, Gooch’s transition to LIV altered his circumstances. The PGA Tour suspended the 31-year-old, preventing him from participating in the season finals. Despite this setback, Gooch had a chance, given his 63rd position in the OWGR. A few points could have secured him an opportunity, as the US Open includes the top 60 players.

Consequently, he attempted to qualify for the 2023 PGA Championship. However, he missed the cut, losing his last opportunity to compete. Despite his refusal to participate in the qualifiers, is there still a chance for Talor Gooch to earn a spot at Pinehurst? There is!

How can Talor Gooch still qualify for the 2024 US Open?

Given Gooch’s OWGR rank of 641, he does not meet the eligibility criteria to participate in the US Open based on OWGR standards. After declining to participate in the final qualifiers, only one option remains for the golfer: a last-minute invite. That’s correct. Major tournaments like the US Open are renowned for extending invites to golfers they deem worthy, as evidenced by Joaquin Niemann receiving a special invite for the Masters and the PGA Championship.

After not being invited to the Masters, the golfer expressed many sentiments regarding major championships. However, surprisingly, he did receive an invitation to the PGA Championship, where he finished with a total of 280, 4-under par, at T60. Considering his performance at Valhalla, it seems highly improbable that Talor Gooch will receive a last-minute invite to the US Open. However, none of this can be confirmed until the USGA officially announces the invitees. Do you believe Gooch will receive an invitation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!