Thompson's bid for more exemptions into events denied by LPGA Tour

The LPGA Tour has denied the request of 15-year-old Alexis Thompson to double the amount of exemptions she is allowed. But under a change in open qualifying, the teenager can earn her way into more tournaments.

Thompson has asked for a limited membership that would allow her to take as many as 12 sponsor exemptions instead of six.

In denying the request, LPGA Tour Commissioner Mike Whan said Thompson would be able to pursue additional playing opportunities by trying to qualify on Monday. Until this year, only LPGA Tour members were allowed to Monday qualify.

Thompson, who turns 16 next month, earned the equivalent of 34th on the LPGA Tour money list last year. Her best finish was second place at the Evian Masters.