The best golfers in the world play for the British Open trophy at a historic venue in Scotland. Who and what is important at the oldest and most prestigious major tournament.
The aura of Tiger Woods can already be felt in the run-up to the 152nd British Open on the west coast of Scotland. Numerous fans accompany the now 48-year-old superstar from California on his practice rounds at Royal Troon Golf Club - from this Thursday, when the fourth and final major tournament of the year begins, thousands will once again admire the 15-time major champion on the edge of the fairways.
Even though Woods will only be competing in a few select tournaments following his numerous operations and serious car accident in February 2021, the long-time world No. 1 has lost none of his appeal and charisma. However, he is no longer one of the favorites to win the British Open title.
The tournament
The British Open is the oldest golf tournament in the world. The era of the Open Championship began in 1860 at Prestwick Golf Club on the west coast of Scotland. The only one of the four major tournaments that does not take place in the USA is held at different locations in the UK every year.
The golf course
The British Open is being played for the tenth time at Royal Troon Golf Club - an hour's drive southwest of Glasgow. The par 71 course on the coast is a typical links course. Dunes, gale-force winds, deep sand bunkers, dense gorse bushes and extremely hard and undulating fairways demand everything from golfers. The last nine holes are among the most challenging in the world.
The prize money
The British Open is endowed with 17 million US dollars (15.6 million euros). The winner alone receives a cheque for 3.1 million US dollars (2.85 million euros) and the winner's trophy, the Claret Jug - a silver wine jug. The winner can also call himself "Champion Golfer of the Year".
The top favorite
Scottie Scheffler: The world number one wants to triumph at the British Open for the first time. The 28-year-old American is currently dominating the golf scene. Scheffler has already won six tournaments on the PGA Tour this season - including the prestigious Masters in Augusta for the second time. In his 15 starts so far this season, Scheffler has already collected over 27 million US dollars in prize money.
SDA
