Tiger Woods has extended a meaningful invitation ahead of the 2026 Genesis Invitational, selecting Sahith Theegala as this year’s recipient of the Charlie Sifford Memorial Exemption. It’s a full-circle moment for Theegala, who made his PGA Tour debut at this very tournament back in 2017 as a sophomore at Pepperdine. Now, nearly a decade later, he returns not just as a rising star, but as a symbol of perseverance and progress in the sport.
Born in Fullerton and raised in Chino Hills, Theegala is no stranger to Los Angeles-area golf. Riviera Country Club, the iconic host of the Genesis Invitational, has been a comfortable stage for him-he’s made the cut in all five of his previous starts there, with three top-15 finishes to show for it. That kind of consistency at a notoriously demanding course speaks volumes about his game and his mental approach.
Theegala’s 2026 season is off to a strong start as well. He’s 4-for-4 in cuts made, with two top-10 finishes already under his belt.
That kind of early-season form makes him a real name to watch heading into the Genesis, which runs February 19-22. As one of only three signature events on the PGA Tour calendar that includes a 36-hole cut, the Genesis carries extra weight-not just in prestige, but in pressure.
And Theegala has shown he’s more than capable of handling both.
The Charlie Sifford Memorial Exemption is awarded each year to a player from a minority background, honoring the legacy of Sifford, who broke golf’s color barrier and paved the way for generations to come. The goal is to recognize players whose journeys reflect the same grit, determination, and love for the game that defined Sifford’s career.
“Receiving this special invitation from Tiger is an honor,” Theegala said in a statement. “The Genesis Invitational has played an important role in my journey to the PGA Tour, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to compete in Charlie's memory.”
Woods echoed that sentiment in his own words: “During Charlie’s playing days, all he wanted was an opportunity to compete with the best players in the world so he could showcase his game, and Sahith shares those same characteristics. I am proud to welcome Sahith to the field for The Genesis Invitational, a tournament that shares a lot of meaning for us both.”
Theegala joins a distinguished list of past recipients, including names like Harold Varner III, Cameron Champ, and J.J. Spaun-players who have gone on to make their mark on the PGA Tour. Each exemption tells a story, and Theegala’s is one of local roots, steady growth, and a game that continues to trend upward.
With Tiger’s endorsement and a track record of success at Riviera, Theegala’s presence in this year’s field isn’t just ceremonial-it’s competitive. And come Thursday, when the tournament tees off, don’t be surprised if he’s right there in the mix, honoring Charlie Sifford’s legacy not just by showing up, but by showing out.