Sepp Straka to miss DP World Tour playoffs to care for sick son

The DP World Tour have announced Sepp Straka will retain his membership on the European-based circuit in 2026 despite not meeting the requirements. 

Players need to participate in at least four events on the circuit to retain membership and be eligible to qualify for the European Ryder Cup team. 

Straka, who represented the blue and gold in September's stunning away victory over the United States at Bethpage Black, has been unable to fulfil his obligation. 

DP World Tour chief executive Guy Kinnings said he has amended Straka's minimum event obligation from four to two in light of the golfer's "serious personal circumstances". 

The Austrian's second son, Thomas, was born prematurely in August and is still in intensive care. 

The distressing situation meant Straka was forced to withdraw from the BMW Championship on the PGA Tour. 

There was speculation as to whether Straka would be able to make his second Ryder Cup appearance. 

But he was selected as one of Luke Donald's six wildcards and contributed one point for Europe in their 15-13 away victory. 

He was expected to be involved in the forthcoming playoffs but has now decided not to play in the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship next week so he can take care of his son.

It means he will have no opportunity to make the four appearances he needs to retain his DP World Tour membership in 2026.

The aforementioned Kinnings has amended his requirements from four events to two. 

In a statement, a spokesperson said: "In recognition of his serious personal circumstances since August, which have understandably impacted his ability to travel and compete globally across the Back 9 and playoffs, as permitted in the members regulation handbook, DP World Tour chief executive Guy Kinnings has amended Sepp's minimum counting tournament obligation from four events to two.

"He will therefore remain eligible for membership for the 2026 season. We would like to take this opportunity to continue to offer our full support and best wishes to Sepp and his family."

Straka has confirmed his son will be able to leave hospital soon. 

"We are immensely grateful to the dedicated medical teams who have cared for him and helped him grow stronger following his early arrival in August," Straka said.

"Consequently, I will be withdrawing from both the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship and the DP World Tour Championship to focus on my family during this important time. 

"I need to be in Alabama to support Paige, ensuring we give Thomas the best start possible as he transitions from NICU to home.

"Thank you for the thoughtful messages and ongoing support we have received over the past few months. 

I would like to extend my best wishes to all participants in the upcoming DP World Tour playoff events and look forward to being back out there soon."

The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship will be played over 6-9 November. 

Only the top 70 players in the Race to Dubai rankings are eligible to compete. 

The field is trimmed to the top 50 for the following week's DP World Tour Championship. 

Masters champion Rory McIlroy leads the order of merit and is bidding to win his seventh Harry Vardon trophy.