2019 Open Championship Preview
The final major of the 2019 season takes place this week at the 148th edition of golf’s oldest championship: The Open Championship. Last year, Francesco Molinari earned his first-ever major championship by two strokes over 4 players at Carnoustie Golf Links in Scotland. The Italian will defend his title at the 2nd Open Championship to be hosted in Northern Ireland at Royal Portrush.
Several of golf’s biggest names will look to add their names to the Claret Jug once again. Past champions in the field include recent winners Zach Johnson, Rory McIlroy, and 2013 champion Phil Mickelson. The field also features a few multiple Open champions, which includes 3-time winner Tiger Woods and two-time winners Ernie Els and Padraig Harrington.
Along with Tiger, U.S. Open champion Gary Woodland and Brooks Keopka seek to solidify Player of the Year options with a win this week. Notables in the field looking for their first major include current FedEx Cup points leader Matt Kuchar, fan-favorite Rickie Fowler, and Irish star Shane Lowry.
ABOUT THE COURSE
Royal Portrush Golf Club:
Royal Portrush Golf Club’s only other Open Championship was in 1951, where Max Faulker won his only major championship. Located on the north shores of Northern Ireland, this links-style golf course measures about 6700 meters and provide a stern test if the wind presents itself.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Rory McIlroy: It’s been 5 years since he last won a major, and one of his triumphs in 2014 took place at Royal Liverpool in the OpenChampionship. A Northern Ireland native, this could be a historic event if Rory can hoist the Claret Jug by week’s end.
Brooks Koepka: His track record in majors has been astonishing, and since he played his first two seasons of professional golf primarily in Europe, he has had plenty of experience on links-style golf courses. Look for him to be a factor in this championship
