 American Todd Hamilton will defend his title at St Andrews |
Open organisers are hopeful more American players will take part in qualifying for this year's event. Last year, a field of 120 was expected for the US leg of qualifying but a total of 53 players withdrew before it.
But Martin Kippax, chairman of the Open championship committee, said: "The situation is that the PGA Tour has taken a very positive line on this.
"Hopefully, with their encouragement, the numbers will be up [for qualifying] at Canoe Brook this year."
Kippax blamed the fact the process, which allows players to compete for a total of 15 qualifying spots, had been a "novelty" last year.
This year, it takes place at Canoe Brook in Summit, New Jersey, on 27 June.
Qualifiers have already taken place in South Africa, Australia and Malaysia, with a fifth scheduled for Sunningdale Golf Club in Berkshire, England, on 27 June.
This year's Open takes place at St Andrews on 14-17 July.
MMIX
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