Every British Open winner by year: Complete list of champions and prize money, from Rory McIlroy to Tiger Woods | Sporting News
Published on Thursday, 17 July 2025 at 9:26 am
The Open Championship, revered globally as the British Open, stands as golf’s oldest major, a timeless pilgrimage to the sport’s very roots. Since its inception in 1860 at Prestwick Golf Club, this tournament has not merely crowned champions; it has forged legends, testing the mettle of the world’s finest golfers against the raw, unpredictable elements of links courses. The allure of the Claret Jug, perhaps the most coveted trophy in golf, transcends generations, drawing players and fans alike into a rich tapestry of history, triumph, and unparalleled challenge. Every winner, from the early pioneers to the modern titans like Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods, has etched their name into a legacy that defines championship golf.
The list of Open champions reads like a who’s who of golf’s pantheon. From the foundational victories of Old Tom Morris and Young Tom Morris in the tournament's nascent years, through the dominance of Harry Vardon, J.H. Taylor, and James Braid – the legendary 'Great Triumvirate' – the championship has always been a proving ground for true greatness. American legends like Bobby Jones, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Tom Watson crossed the Atlantic to conquer the links, each adding a unique chapter to the Open’s narrative. Nicklaus, with three Claret Jugs, and Watson, with an astonishing five, exemplify the consistent excellence required to master these unforgiving layouts. Their victories underscore the tournament's unique character, where strategic shot-making, resilience, and adaptability to changing weather conditions are often more crucial than brute power.
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In the contemporary erathe spotlight has shone brightly on figures such as Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroywhose Open victories captivated millions. Woods’ dominant performancesparticularly his back-to-back triumphs in 2005 and 2006including an iconic 2000 win at St Andrews that completed his career Grand Slamshowcased a level of mastery rarely seen. His strategic course management and unflappable temperament allowed him to dissect the Old Course with surgical precision. SimilarlyRory McIlroy’s commanding wire-to-wire victory at Royal Liverpool in 2014 cemented his status as one of the game’s elitedemonstrating his prodigious talent and ability to perform under immense pressure on golf's grandest stage. Their namesalongside other modern champions like Shane LowryCollin Morikawaand Jordan Spiethcontinue to elevate the tournament's global appeal and fiercely competitive landscape.
Source: sportingnews
