The Open Championship is one of golf’s most prestigious events, steeped in tradition and history. Known simply as “The Open,” it is golf’s oldest major championship, first played in 1860. What sets The Open Championship apart from other tournaments is its unique rotation among iconic links courses across the United Kingdom. This year, in 2025, excitement builds as the tournament returns to the legendary Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland. This will be only the third time The Open Championship is played at this iconic course, promising to deliver unforgettable moments.
The 2025 Host Course: Royal Portrush Golf Club
Royal Portrush Golf Club is one of golf’s most celebrated venues, prominently known for hosting The Open Championship in 2019. Set on the dramatic northern coastline of Northern Ireland, the course combines breathtaking natural beauty with classic links golf challenges.
Rich History of Royal Portrush
Established in 1888, Royal Portrush quickly evolved from a nine-hole layout into today’s championship course. Harry Colt redesigned it in 1929, cementing its place among legendary golf destinations. Before hosting The Open Championship again in 2019, two new holes (7th and 8th) replaced the old finishing holes, enhancing the course further.
Course Features and Playing Conditions
The Rough at Royal Portrush
The rough at Royal Portrush epitomizes the challenging yet fair nature of classic links golf. Tall, dense fescue and marram grasses border the meticulously maintained fairways, creating a picturesque but intimidating hazard. While the first cut allows for some forgiveness, balls drifting farther offline quickly settle into thicker, tougher areas. This demands careful judgment—players must decide between a risky aggressive shot or safely advancing the ball to minimize damage. Therefore, accuracy off the tee is essential, making club selection and course management crucial elements to scoring well at Portrush.
Sand Traps and Bunkers
Royal Portrush features traditional links-style pot bunkers, famously deep and strategically positioned. These bunkers present genuine hazards, requiring skillful planning and precise shot-making to avoid. Steep-faced bunkers near greens and fairways challenge golfers by significantly limiting shot options. Landing in these bunkers often forces golfers to adopt conservative strategies, aiming simply to escape cleanly rather than aggressively seeking the pin. Their clever placement, particularly on pivotal holes, makes bunker avoidance key to success and adds a dramatic dimension to match play.
The Greens of Royal Portrush
The greens at Royal Portrush are revered for their impeccable quality and thoughtful design. Maintained at medium-fast speeds, these surfaces provide consistent, smooth rolls throughout play. However, the greens’ subtle yet challenging undulations test a player’s approach accuracy and putting skills. Reading breaks and judging distances are critical; seemingly straightforward putts may break unexpectedly, catching even experienced golfers off guard. Properly positioning approach shots to leave manageable putts is vital—this aspect enhances both the mental and strategic demands of playing this iconic course.
Booking Information and Visitor Tips
Royal Portrush welcomes visitors between April and September. Peak season green fees are approximately £295. Booking in advance via the club’s official website is highly recommended.
Local Attractions and Accessibility
Portrush and neighboring Portstewart offer classic seaside charm with pubs, seafood restaurants, and family-friendly activities. Nearby Portstewart Golf Club is another excellent golfing option. Belfast and its international airport are just over an hour away, providing easy accessibility.
Royal Portrush continues to be a favorite among golf enthusiasts, perfectly combining tradition, natural beauty, and challenging golf into one unforgettable experience.
Ticket Options for The Open Championship
The ticket options for The Open Championship are designed to accommodate different tastes, experiences, and budgets. Here’s a detailed overview of each type of hospitality and ticketing package available, and guidance on securing your place now that the general ballot is closed.
Premium Hospitality Packages
Clubmakers (Sold Out – Waiting List Available)
Clubmakers provides a luxurious yet relaxed hospitality setting. It offers a casual yet premium experience without fixed seating. Guests can freely roam between various comfortable lounge areas and enjoy top-quality food featuring locally sourced ingredients. The inclusive beverage package rounds out the experience, perfect for socializing and networking throughout the event.
- Highlights:
- Casual premium environment
- Inclusive drinks and local gourmet food
- Flexibility and comfort with unrestricted seating
To secure this package after sell-out, you need to join the waiting list through an enquiry directly on the official website.
Champions (Sold Out – Waiting List Available)
The Champions hospitality option is crafted for fans seeking an exclusive and close-up golf experience. It provides comprehensive access to fully inclusive premium services, which include exquisite dining and drinks, with prime positioning to watch the world’s best golfers compete.
- Highlights:
- Unmatched access to premium facilities
- High-end dining and hospitality services
- Ideal for a memorable luxury sporting experience
Since Champions tickets have sold out quickly, interested attendees must join the waiting list by enquiring through the event’s hospitality website.
Scorers (Limited Availability – Wednesday Only)
The Scorers hospitality ticket is still available but only for Wednesday, July 16. Positioned conveniently near the heart of the action, it provides excellent accessibility to the course. Guests enjoy delightful bistro-style dining and vibrant atmosphere.
- Highlights:
- Excellent course accessibility
- Comfortable yet casual bistro-style dining
- Ideal for attendees looking for an affordable yet high-quality experience
Currently priced from £350 excluding VAT per person, these tickets can be purchased directly via the official ticketing platform.
Scorers Premium (Sold Out – Waiting List Available)
The Scorers Premium option is perfect for those who prefer a personalized experience. It includes a private table reserved throughout the entire day, enabling guests to comfortably watch the event unfold while indulging in premium food and drink options.
- Highlights:
- Private table reserved for the entire day
- Premium dining and beverage selections
- Superior comfort and service
To access these sold-out tickets, interested parties need to register for the waiting list through an enquiry via the official hospitality website.
Origins Suites (Sold Out – Waiting List Available)
Origins Suites offer exclusive private hospitality spaces located strategically above the 2nd hole, providing impressive views and the ability to personalize the area according to brand or preference. This is an excellent choice for corporate hosting or private gatherings.
- Highlights:
- Customizable private space with exceptional views
- Tailored services for brand and corporate hospitality
- Premium, intimate event setting
Interested individuals or corporations can join the waiting list by enquiring through the dedicated hospitality contact form online.
Engravers (Sold Out – Waiting List Available)
Engraver’s hospitality offers an exclusive fine dining experience featuring silver service and exquisite culinary offerings. It is set within refined surroundings with breathtaking panoramic views of the course, perfect for guests seeking the utmost luxury.
- Highlights:
- High-end fine dining with silver service
- Spectacular panoramic views of the course
- Exclusive and refined atmosphere
Due to overwhelming demand, securing this package currently involves joining the waiting list by enquiring on the official hospitality website.
Caddies (Sold Out – Waiting List Available)
Caddies Hospitality provides a more informal and relaxed experience without sacrificing premium benefits. This option features spacious, comfortable surroundings suitable for guests wanting a laid-back atmosphere while still enjoying excellent service and convenience.
- Highlights:
- Informal, spacious setting with comfortable seating
- Premium service in a relaxed environment
- Great option for socializing comfortably throughout the day
As with other packages, those interested must register their details on the waiting list via an official hospitality enquiry form.
How to Secure Tickets Now That the General Ballot Is Closed
With the general ballot closed, securing tickets now involves exploring limited hospitality packages still available, such as the Wednesday-only Scorers option, or joining waiting lists for sold-out experiences. Fans looking to attend The Open Championship should regularly check the official Open Championship website for updated availability and any released tickets from cancellations or additional allocations.
Hospitality packages, while more expensive, offer superior comfort, exclusivity, and enhanced event experiences, making them highly recommended for those keen to attend this world-renowned golfing event.
In summary, to attend The Open Championship at Royal Portrush, prompt action through official hospitality channels is necessary. Register interest early and keep a close watch on official communications for the best chance of securing your preferred tickets.
Food and Beverage Experience at The Open
The Open Championship is well-known for its culinary offerings, showcasing classic British and Irish cuisine. Fans can savor traditional favorites such as fish and chips, meat pies, gourmet burgers, and freshly made sandwiches. Specialty beverage options include local ales, craft beers, and premium spirits, ensuring a delightful gastronomic experience that complements the championship’s atmosphere.
Expected Field and Star Players
The Open Championship typically attracts golf’s biggest names. The 2025 event at Royal Portrush is expected to feature top-ranked players like Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, and Viktor Hovland. Each of these golfers brings unique strengths and styles that promise exciting competition.
Rory McIlroy, a Northern Irish native, will undoubtedly be a fan favorite at Royal Portrush, where local support will be immense. Other notable competitors include younger stars making their marks, eager to win their first major or veterans looking to add another major to their storied careers.
Prize Pool at The Open Championship
The prize pool for The Open Championship is one of the largest in golf, attracting top talent and fierce competition from players worldwide. Last year’s prize fund was substantial, and a similar structure is anticipated for this year, ensuring significant earnings for successful competitors.
The champion golfer of the year in the previous tournament earned an impressive $3,100,000, highlighting the prestige and financial rewards associated with winning this iconic event. The runner-up secured a substantial prize of $1,759,000, while the third-place finisher took home $1,128,000.
Here’s a closer breakdown of last year’s prize money for the top positions:
- 1st Place: $3,100,000
- 2nd Place: $1,759,000
- 3rd Place: $1,128,000
- 4th Place: $876,000
- 5th Place: $705,000
- 6th Place: $611,000
- 7th Place: $525,000
- 8th Place: $442,500
- 9th Place: $388,000
- 10th Place: $350,600
Beyond the top ten, the prize amounts gradually decrease but still represent substantial compensation for those who make the cut and perform well. For instance, players finishing in the mid-tier positions (such as 20th) received around $176,200. Even competitors in the lower positions of the leaderboard were rewarded with payouts—$38,900 for the 70th position.
This structured prize system ensures that every golfer competing at The Open Championship has a financial incentive to perform at their highest level throughout the four-day tournament. With such a generous prize fund, it’s clear why The Open Championship is considered one of the most important and prestigious events in the golfing calendar.
Notable Past Winners and Historic Moments
The Open Championship boasts a rich history filled with memorable moments and legendary champions. Recent notable winners include:
- 2024, Royal Troon: Xander Schauffele emerged as the Champion Golfer of the Year, showcasing consistency and poise throughout a challenging week.
- 2023, Royal Liverpool: Brian Harman took the title, displaying impressive precision and resilience to claim his first major.
- 2022, St Andrews: Cameron Smith won a thrilling championship at the historic Old Course, stunning fans with an exceptional putting performance.
- 2021, Royal St George’s: Collin Morikawa captured his second major with a remarkable display of accuracy and composure, further establishing his young career.
- 2019, Royal Portrush: Shane Lowry’s victory was unforgettable, especially meaningful to the Irish crowd, as he triumphed spectacularly under challenging conditions.
- 2018, Carnoustie: Francesco Molinari played flawless golf to secure Italy’s first Open Championship win, handling immense pressure from top competitors.
- 2017, Royal Birkdale: Jordan Spieth dramatically captured the championship with a thrilling final round, demonstrating remarkable mental toughness.
- 2016, Royal Troon: Henrik Stenson won after an epic battle with Phil Mickelson, regarded as one of the greatest head-to-head duels in golf history.
- 2015, St Andrews: Zach Johnson prevailed in a gripping playoff, adding his name to the storied history of winners at the Home of Golf.
Each champion’s victory often includes unforgettable shots and dramatic moments that define their careers, further underlining The Open Championship’s significance in golf.
Fan Tips and What to Bring to The Open Championship
Proper preparation will significantly enhance your experience at The Open Championship. With long days spent walking around the course, wearing comfortable, waterproof footwear is crucial. Weather on a coastal links course can change rapidly, so dressing in layers including sweaters and waterproof jackets, is strongly recommended. Bring sun protection such as hats, visors, sunscreen, and sunglasses, even if the day starts cloudy.
To better enjoy the event, consider bringing binoculars to follow distant action. Keep your smartphone or camera fully charged to capture memorable moments, and pack a portable charger as a backup. Check event guidelines in advance to ensure all items comply with security rules.
Transportation and Parking at The Open Championship
Transportation planning is essential for a smooth visit to The Open Championship. Public transportation, including trains and shuttle buses, is typically the easiest way to get to the venue, helping you avoid parking issues.
If you’re driving, make sure to reserve parking spots ahead of time through official event channels. Parking near the course can fill quickly, especially on peak days. Alternatively, rideshare services and taxis offer convenient drop-off and pick-up points marked around the venue, simplifying arrivals and departures.
More Than a Golf Tournament: Enjoying the Full Experience
The Open Championship isn’t just about elite golf—it’s a celebration of tradition, community, and culture. Beyond the thrilling competition, fans can enjoy the rich heritage symbolized by iconic moments like the awarding of the Claret Jug.
Explore interactive fan zones, exhibitions showcasing golf history, and extensive merchandise areas for exclusive souvenirs. Culinary highlights such as classic fish and chips, fresh local seafood, and gourmet sandwiches enrich your event experience. Be sure to also sample beverages from regional breweries and wineries to truly savor the atmosphere.
By embracing all aspects of The Open Championship, you’ll create lasting memories, appreciating it as both a sporting spectacle and a vibrant cultural gathering.
