British Open Ruling Introduces Eligibility Cut at 55 for Future Winners
On Wednesday, the organizers of the esteemed British Open golf tournament publicly declared that potential winners will lose eligibility five years earlier than currently.
“Starting from 2024, golfers who clinch the British Open will only be exempted up to the age of 55,” the Royal and Ancient Club outlined in their statement. Today, former victors of the British Open are given the privilege to take part in the competition up to 60 years of age.
This new rule will come into play this year at the Royal Troon but will not affect past winners such as Tiger Woods. The 48-year-old American golfer will be granted an exemption for the coming 12 years.
Tom Watson, a five-time champion of the tournament, was close to his 60th birthday in 2009 when he graciously bowed to Stewart Cink after a gruelling playoff round at Turnberry.
Sitting amongst former champions who are now aged 55 are Paul Lawrie—victorious at Carnoustie in 1999—and Darren Clarke, who triumphed at Royal St. George’s in 2011.