Why are there US Open qualifiers held in Sayama City, Japan and Surrey, England?

Question

I know the US is the world's ambassador, and the US Open is the greatest tournament in the world, and they're tired of people referring to the British Open as "the Open Championship", but it's the US Open! If they want to qualify, can't they get a plane ticket?

Answer 1

This is the first time the PGA has done this. It is their attempt to incorporate international talent that otherwise would not have an opportunity to qualify for the tournament. Historically, the British Open has been more "open" than the US Open. I guess the PGA is trying to change that.