The Open Championship is the world’s oldest golf tournament and the stage for its 144th year is the historic Old Course in St. Andrews. For the 29th time in its history, Scotland’s most famous 18-hole layout will play host to the best players from across the globe, all wanting to hoist the Claret Jug. But before the Champion Golfer of 2015 can drink from that silver masterpiece, let’s take a look at some of the stories that are leading up to this season’s third major.
Rory ruptures ligament in left ankle; out of Open
Let’s face the facts, a major without its defending champion in the mix is not exciting. It’s even harder to imagine one without Rory McIlroy, who just so happens to be the World Number-One and the face of the sport. The 25-year-old’s Open title from last year made him the third golfer in history to win three major championships by his age next to Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods. His presence at the tournament is currently on hold due to an ankle injury as the Northern Irishman was playing soccer with friends on Saturday and reportedly ruptured a ligament. He posted a photo via Instagram sporting crutches and a walking boot, reassuring his fans that he’ll get back to the links when he can. While we do wish Rory the best, any other golfer who has attempted to return soon after an injury can easily say it’s not the best idea. The 11-time PGA Tour winner officially announced today that he will not participate and while rehab is moving in the right direction, he said that he’ll return when he feels 100%.
After much consideration, I have decided not to play in the Open Championship at St. Andrews. I’m… https://t.co/G6nYJPcD9e
— Rory Mcilroy (@McIlroyRory) July 8, 2015
Jordan Spieth going for 3rd straight major victory
The possibilities are endless for Jordan Spieth, arguably the best golfer in the world heading into the British Open. According to the World Golf Rankings, the Number-Two ranked player has a great chance to take over as Number-One depending on how he finishes St. Andrews. Spieth will be playing in the John Deere Classic before heading to Scotland, for which he has raised some eyebrows as it could affect his chances at winning a third-straight major and a shot at the Grand Slam of Golf. However, the John Deere has some great memories for Spieth as it is the venue in 2013 where he won his first professional event and became the fourth youngest golfer in history to win on the PGA Tour at 19 years old. So obviously he feels obligated to play TPC Deere Run, which is commendable, but we’ll see if this year’s favourite to win the British Open doesn’t take on more than he can handle; no pressure for a 21-year-old Texan, right?
Tiger too tamed to play?
Of course, the question on everyone’s mind is when Tiger Woods will win a 15th major, or any future major for that matter. Newsflash; it may not be for a long time if recent events have shown us anything about Tiger’s game, health, and overall attitude. To be fair to Tiger’s ability to play, he was able to make the cut at The Greenbrier Classic, but finished tied for 32nd and his odds to win the British Open are currently 20-1. However, experts have criticised his inability to adjust to a game that’s constantly changing; his driving range practices have better results than in actual competition because of his urge to be powerful instead of accurate. His re-occurring injuries have also prevented him from getting any better, although his health seems to be in good shape heading overseas. But, and let’s be honest here, Tiger is pushing 40 years old and no golfer has been afraid to compete against him in five-plus years. To the point of this summary, the now 226th ranked golfer in the world is not expected to make a push at this year’s British Open; then again anything can happen.
Nick Faldo saying “Ta-Ta for now”
Ten years ago, one of golf’s greatest legends stepped down from professional competition at St. Andrews and the farewell was as golden as the bear himself. Jack Nicklaus concluded his British Open career at the age of 65, finishing in remarkable fashion with a birdie on the final hole from 18 feet. This year, a knight will joust The Old Course for his final Open Championship appearance of his career; Nick Faldo, excuse me… Sir Nick Faldo, will walk off the 18th green as one of the greatest European golfers. A career that included 41 career victories, six major championships, and a 1997 World Golf Hall of Fame induction. Despite recent allegations about his broadcasting bias when commentating tournaments on television, the 57-year-old will likely receive a resounding ovation from the grandstands, just don’t expect the Royals to be in attendance.
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The British Open will take place from July 16th – 19th; the John Deere Classic will be the final qualifying tournament for PGA Tour professionals, which begins Thursday July 9th.
