The Open Championship: Your Quick Guide to Golf’s Oldest Major

Whether you’re a die‑hard fan or just heard about the British Open on a podcast, this guide gives you everything you need to know right now. We’ll cover why The Open matters, who’s in the mix this year, and the easiest ways to watch without missing a single swing.

Why The Open Matters

The Open Championship is more than a tournament – it’s a piece of golf history that dates back to 1860. It’s the only major played on a links course, meaning you’ll see wind‑swept fairways, deep bunkers and that unmistakable feel of a seaside venue. That setting creates drama: a single gust can turn a birdie into a bogey in seconds.

Because it rotates among eight historic courses – like St Andrews, Royal Birkdale and the current host Royal Liverpool – each edition feels fresh. Players who master the tricky terrain earn instant respect. That’s why you’ll hear names like Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm or emerging star Ludvig Aberg talked about a lot during Open week.

How to Follow This Year’s Tournament

First up, dates: The Open usually runs over four days in mid‑July. Check the official schedule for exact tee times – they can shift by a day if weather forces a delay.

If you’re in South Africa or any African country, look for live coverage on SuperSport and DStv’s Golf Channel. Those feeds often add local commentary that explains the quirks of each hole. For streaming fans, the PGA Tour’s official site and Golf TV both offer real‑time video with a free trial period during the first two days.

Want to stay updated without a screen? Download the European Tour app; it pushes live scores, leaderboards and even short highlight clips straight to your phone. Turn on push notifications for “hole‑by‑hole” alerts if you love that instant buzz when a player makes an eagle.

If you’re thinking about attending in person, tickets sell out fast. The best strategy is to buy the 3‑day package as soon as they open – it usually includes practice rounds and a chance to walk the same fairways as the pros. Arrive early on day one; the crowds are thinner and you can snag a good spot near the iconic 18th green.

Finally, remember that The Open loves surprises. Past champions have won with a final‑round charge, a lucky bounce off a bunker lip or simply staying cool while the wind howls. Keep an eye on players who excel in windy conditions – they often become the dark horses you’ll be cheering for.

So there you have it: a quick rundown of why The Open Championship is a must‑watch event, the key dates and venues, plus simple ways to watch whether you’re at home or planning to be on the course. Grab your cap, set those alerts, and enjoy the drama that only a true links tournament can deliver.