The English Open drought at the Open Championship is one of golf's most enduring mysteries, with no home winner since Tony Jacklin in 1969. As the tournament heads to Royal Birkdale, players like Matt Fitzpatrick and Tommy Fleetwood offer hope for a breakthrough.
Why the English Drought at the Open?
The last Englishman to lift the Claret Jug on English soil was Tony Jacklin at Royal Lytham & St Annes in 1969. Since then, Nick Faldo won three Opens, but all in Scotland. The English drought stems partly from a lack of world No. 1s—only Luke Donald, Lee Westwood, and Justin Rose have topped the rankings briefly, compared to global stars like Tiger Woods and Scottie Scheffler.
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Top English Contenders at Royal Birkdale 2024
This year, the signs are promising. Matt Fitzpatrick and Tommy Fleetwood sit third and fourth in betting odds, behind Scheffler and Rory McIlroy. Aaron Rai won the US PGA Championship in May, while Tyrrell Hatton is finding form. Even 45-year-old Justin Rose, who finished tied fourth at Birkdale as an amateur in 1998, remains a threat.
Key Players to Watch
- Matt Fitzpatrick – US Open champion, strong iron play suited to links golf.
- Tommy Fleetwood – Consistent performer, runner-up at the 2019 Open.
- Aaron Rai – Recent major winner with momentum.
- Tyrrell Hatton – Flashes of brilliance, top-10 finishes in majors.
- Justin Rose – Veteran experience and local knowledge.
Comparison: English vs. International Major Winners Since 1969
| Period | English Major Wins | International Major Wins |
|---|---|---|
| 1969–1979 | 1 (Jacklin) | 40 |
| 1980–1989 | 3 (Faldo x3) | 37 |
| 1990–1999 | 3 (Faldo x2, Lawrie) | 37 |
| 2000–2009 | 2 (Hamilton, Donald) | 38 |
| 2010–2024 | 2 (Rose, Fitzpatrick) | 56 |
The data shows English golfers have won only 11 majors since 1969, while international players have dominated with over 200. The English drought at the Open is part of a broader trend.
What Would an English Win Mean?
For players like Aaron Rai, who grew up watching the Open on BBC, a home victory would be a dream. “It’s a very, very special tournament,” he says. Ending the 55-year wait would electrify British golf and inspire a new generation.
FAQ
When was the last time an English golfer won the Open in England?
Tony Jacklin won at Royal Lytham & St Annes on July 12, 1969. No Englishman has won on home soil since.
Who are the top English contenders for the 2024 Open at Royal Birkdale?
Matt Fitzpatrick, Tommy Fleetwood, Aaron Rai, Tyrrell Hatton, and Justin Rose are the leading English hopes.
Why has the English drought at the Open lasted so long?
A lack of world No. 1s and intense global competition, especially from American and European stars, have contributed to the drought.
With Royal Birkdale’s challenging layout and a strong English contingent, 2024 could finally break the curse. Fans will be watching closely as history hangs in the balance.
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