The Open Championship drought for English golfers on home soil is a storied and frustrating chapter in golf history. The last time an Englishman won the Open in England was in 1969, when Tony Jacklin triumphed at Royal Lytham & St Annes. Now, as the tournament heads to Royal Birkdale, a new generation of English stars like Matt Fitzpatrick and Tommy Fleetwood are poised to break the curse.
The Longest Drought in English Golf
Since Jacklin's victory, no English golfer has won the Open in England. Nick Faldo won three Opens, but all in Scotland. This 55-year gap is the longest home drought in the championship's history. The reasons are complex, ranging from the rise of global talent to the mental pressure of performing on home soil.
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Key Contenders for 2024
This year's field features several English players with strong chances. Matt Fitzpatrick, the 2022 U.S. Open champion, sits third in the betting odds. Tommy Fleetwood, known for his links golf prowess, is fourth. Aaron Rai, Tyrrell Hatton, and veteran Justin Rose also bring experience and form to Royal Birkdale.
| Player | World Ranking | Best Open Finish |
|---|---|---|
| Matt Fitzpatrick | 8 | T20 (2019) |
| Tommy Fleetwood | 11 | 2nd (2019) |
| Tyrrell Hatton | 16 | T5 (2016) |
| Aaron Rai | 45 | T12 (2023) |
| Justin Rose | 37 | T4 (1998, amateur) |
Why the Drought Has Persisted
Several factors have contributed to the English drought. The globalisation of golf means top players from the U.S., Northern Ireland, and Australia dominate. English golfers have rarely held the world No. 1 spot—only Luke Donald, Lee Westwood, and Justin Rose have done so since Faldo. Additionally, links courses like Royal Birkdale require a unique skill set that not all players master.
Signs of Hope
Despite the history, optimism is high. Aaron Rai won the US PGA Championship in May, and Tyrrell Hatton has shown flashes of brilliance. The Royal Birkdale layout rewards accuracy and creativity, traits that suit English players. “The Open Championship for a British player is the pinnacle of the game,” says Rose, who finished fourth at Birkdale as an amateur in 1998.
- English players have not won the Open in England since 1969.
- Royal Birkdale has hosted the Open nine times, with winners from the U.S., Australia, and Ireland.
- Matt Fitzpatrick and Tommy Fleetwood are top-5 betting favorites.
- Links golf demands precision, wind management, and imagination.
- The 2024 Open could finally end the 55-year wait.
FAQ
When was the last time an English golfer won the Open in England?
Tony Jacklin won the Open Championship at Royal Lytham & St Annes on July 12, 1969. No English golfer 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 players in the field.
Why is the English Open drought so long?
Factors include the global rise of top players, lack of English world No. 1s since Faldo, and the unique challenges of links golf courses.
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