If you’re new to golf or just starting to follow the sport, you’ve probably heard about The Open Championship. It’s one of the biggest events in the golfing calendar, and often called simply “The Open” and was formerly know as “The British Open.”
But what exactly is it, and why is it so important? This beginner’s guide will cover all the basics you need to know about The Open Championship.
The Open Championship is one of the four major golf tournaments played each year. The other three majors are; The Masters, U.S. Open, and PGA Championship.
The Open is the oldest of these, first played in 1860, making it the most historic golf tournament in the world.
It’s organised by The R&A, the governing body for golf outside the United States and Mexico, and it’s traditionally played on links courses in the United Kingdom.
A links course is a specific type of golf course located by the sea, featuring rolling terrain, natural dunes, and often windy conditions, making it a unique challenge.
The Open Championship is held in July each year. The Open rotates among a select group of famous golf courses in the UK.
Some of the most famous Open venues include:
Each course has its own unique challenges, and the weather conditions often play a big part in how players perform.
Several things make The Open Championship stand out:
The tournament lasts four days, from Thursday to Sunday, with 72 holes of golf played (18 holes per day).
The field starts with about 156 players, including professionals and some amateurs who qualify. After the first two days, a cut is made, only players who scored well enough continue to the final two rounds.
The golfer with the lowest total score after 72 holes wins the championship.
If you want to follow The Open, you can watch it live on TV or stream it online through sports channels. Many broadcasters also offer highlights and expert commentary that explain what’s happening in simple terms – perfect for beginners.
You can also check The Open’s official website for scores, player info, and updates during the tournament.
If you’re new to golf, The Open Championship is a great place to start learning about the sport’s history, challenges, and excitement. Its unique courses, rich tradition, and world-class players make it a must-watch event each year.