While not typically a formal means of qualification, typically all players within the top 100 in the world are invited to participate in major events. However, because LIV Golf cannot provide world ranking points, both Gooch and Puig did not have high enough rankings to automatically qualify for the event. Nonetheless, both have demonstrated excellent form to secure their positions.
American golfer Talor Gooch excelled in winning the individual championship of LIV Golf in 2023 with three victories, followed by a strong performance this season. He currently sits eighth in the standings after securing top-10 finishes in seven tournaments so far, including a fourth-place finish at the recent event at Sentosa Golf Club in Singapore.
The invitation was extended just days after Gooch confirmed he would not attempt to qualify for his third major of the year, the US Open. His appearance at the PGA Championship will mark only his second appearance in the tournament after finishing T20 in 2022.
In addition to Talor Gooch, David Puig has also received a special invitation to appear at this major event. Despite facing difficulties in most LIV Golf events this season and ranking 43rd individually, his performance in the Asian Tour tells a different story.
