$65 Million Star Golfer Abruptly Withdraws From Chance to Make U.S. Open originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The 2025 U.S. Open, set for June 12-15 at Oakmont Country Club just outside Pittsburgh, promises to be one of the year’s most anticipated golf majors. But one familiar name won’t be chasing the trophy this time — Bubba Watson.
The two-time Masters champion made headlines on Monday after withdrawing from the final qualifying round in Rockville, Maryland, dimming hopes of his appearance in the prestigious event.
Watson was one of several LIV Golf players who pulled out of the qualifier at Woodmont Country Club, just days before the LIV tournament scheduled near Washington, D.C.
At 45, Watson has crafted an impressive career both on the PGA and LIV circuits. According to recent figures, he’s amassed over $65 million in total career earnings.
His decision came without a public explanation, but it effectively ends his route into the U.S. Open barring an unexpected exemption. Alongside Watson, other LIV-linked withdrawals included Matt Jones, Thomas Pieters, Lee Westwood and David Puig. Only one LIV player, Marc Leishman, made it through qualifying, while others like Anirban Lahiri and Brendan Steele fell short.
Bubba Watson RM 055 pic.twitter.com/Sjp5vUBiju
— Richard Mille Club (@richardmilleday) June 2, 2025
His earnings include $49.28 million from the PGA Tour and another $9.37 million from LIV Golf, with over $6.4 million coming from majors alone. His career longevity and success make him one of the top earners in modern golf.
Though Watson won’t be teeing it up at Oakmont, major champions like Brooks Koepka, Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau and Phil Mickelson will be present, keeping the LIV presence alive. Still, Bubba’s absence leaves a noticeable gap. Whether this signals a shift in his playing focus or just a scheduling move remains to be seen.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 3, 2025, where it first appeared.
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