Patrick Reed gets special exemption to play 

European Tour again in 2017

American Patrick Reed's withdrawal from the Turkish Airlines Open had major, multiple implications. Reed's failure to play in five sanctioned European Tour events meant the 26 year old lost his tour membership, which subsequently granted a spot to journeyman Graeme Storm. 

However, it appears the European Tour had a change of heart, as this week the tour bestowed a special exemption to Reed, pictured, for the 2017 season.

“We are delighted to announce that Patrick will return to action on the European Tour for the 2017 season,” said European Tour CEO Keith Pelley. 

 “He is one of the game’s most exciting talents, as everyone who witnessed his electrifying performance at this year’s Ryder Cup will testify to, and our fans look forward to seeing him in action again next year.”

According to Pelley, Reed earned the exemption thanks to his win at the 2014 WGC-Cadillac Championship, which is a co-sanctioned event.

"I love to compete and I take pride in the fact that I have both my US PGA Tour card and my European Tour card," Reed said in a statement. 

"I am grateful that I will continue to be a part of the European Tour and I value the opportunity to play with the best players in the world, all over the world."