Defending champ of Argentina Open 'shocked' after being denied exemption
Korn Ferry Tour pro Zack Fischer has taken to X to outline his 'shock' at being denied a sponsor exemption into the Argentina Open.
Zack Fischer says he is in 'shock' after he was denied a sponsor exemption into the Korn Ferry Tour's Argentina Open - despite being the tournament's defending champion.
Fischer took to X to explain he was incredibly disappointed to be missing out on the event next week in Buenos Aires at Olivos Golf Club.
The golfer took home the top prize of $31,500 at the event in 2022. In 2023, the tournament was not played because it had to be rescheduled.
Still, Fischer thought he was worthy of an invite this year but according to the golfer the tournament organisers had 'other plans' for the exemptions.
The fact he is not in the field by ranking is primarily down to the fact he lost his full playing rights on the Korn Ferry Tour last season.
"I am incredibly disappointed to say that I will not be able to defend my title at the Argentina Open on the Korn Ferry Tour next week," he wrote.
"I have pleaded my case but they have other plans for the exemptions. That being said 2024 will still be my best year ever."
Fischer stated that he still believes 2024 will be a big year for him both professionally and personally.
The golfer and his wife are expecting another baby and he believes success beckons on the PGA Tour Americas.
Fischer has reportedly never received a sponsor exemption to play in any event across his 13-year career.
A number of golf fans appeared to be sympathetic with Fisher.
One wrote: "At every level of play it should be a matter of PGA policy that the previous year's winner is afforded the opportunity to defend their title regardless of their playing status."
To which Fisher replied: "Thanks, I am in shock as well. I hope that bringing this to attention helps to not let it happen again to someone else."
Fischer's victory at the Argentina Open saw him earn a spot at the 151st Open at Royal Liverpool.
Once again the tournament will offer a start in the major in July at Royal Troon.
I am incredibly disappointed to say that I will not be able to defend my title at the Argentina Open on the @KornFerryTour next week. I have pleaded my case but they have other plans for the exemptions. That being said 2024 will still be my best year ever!
— Zack Fischer (@ZackFisch3) February 24, 2024
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