ST. ANDREW'S, Scotland - Michelle Wie will play in this year's Women's British Open, the Ladies Golf Union said Monday.

The 15-year-old Wie accepted a special exception from the LGU to play at the July 28-31 event at Royal Birkdale.

"We have followed Michelle's development over the last two years with great interest and admiration and in particular her performance in major championships," LGU chief executive Andy Salmon said. "We have no doubt that she is ready to compete with the world's best players at Royal Birkdale."

Wie is one of five amateurs given exemptions to appear in the 144-player field.