No every spots does not need to be filled. Actually all of the spots didn't fill only 197 of the 216 spots filled.
Why $$$$$$$.
I feel your example of the PGA Masters reflect more so the PDGA USDGC event. Where a select few are invited.
I get it, I don't think anyone here is actually defending Lloyd actually being allowed to play, we're mostly just having fun with it.
But MTL example of limiting to 960 and above would have eliminated 25 other players other than Lloyd, 26 if you count the 960 rated player . And actually two of my friends would not have been allowed to compete, one an old pro and one an up and coming kid. And I think that is a very bad idea. And the young up and comer played so well he moved from B pool to the A pool. Out of the 25 two moved up to A pool, 3 if you count the 960 rated guy.
The great thing about the NCAA basketball tournament is the Cinderella stories. The dream that anyone can win the championship. Does anyone win that tournament? No, but you know what they can dream. The PDGA shouldn't be about crushing dreams.
Does the NFL tell a team below .500 they can't make the playoffs? Do NBA or NHL say that either?
We already have the invite only tournament at the USDGC, which is fine. I believe it would be a huge mistake to limit Worlds to 960 rating. I don't care if Lloyd can play, but a 940 or 955 rated local pro not being able to play because of a cap is a mistake where their spots available. Its not hurting anything it just crushing dreams of people who pay the PDGA for their "Pro" memberships.
And of course no lower rated player should take the spot of someone more qualified.