The Open Championship already has its venue confirmed for its 2028 edition. Royal Lytham & St Annes will host the 156th edition of the prestigious British major from 30 July to 6 August, in two years’ time, marking the return of golf’s oldest major to one of its most emblematic venues.
It will be the 12th time in history that the tournament is played on the legendary English course, located on the coast of Fylde. The last time the Open visited Royal Lytham was in 2012, when Ernie Els won the second Jarra de Clarete of his career after a memorable late comeback.
The course’s roll of honour reflects its huge historical significance in world golf. Its fairways have seen winners such as Bobby Jones, Bobby Locke, Peter Thomson, Gary Player, Seve Ballesteros, Tony Jacklin, Tom Lehman and David Duval.
Mark Darbon, chief executive of The R&A, highlighted the importance of the venue: ” Royal Lytham & St Annes is recognised as one of the best links in the world and has been the scene of great moments since the Open was played there for the first time in 1926, when the legendary Bobby Jones“.
He also emphasised that the return of the championship “will awaken huge interest among fans to be part of one of the great sporting events in the world and to celebrate the rich traditions of the original championship of golf”.
An announcement with a historic flavour
The choice coincides with a notable date for the club, which this year commemorates the centenary of Bobby Jones‘ victory in 1926 and also one hundred years since the granting of its Royal status. Tim Walker, chairman of the club council, said the organisation feels “honoured” to host the Open again and recalled the close historical relationship between Royal Lytham and the British major.
Local authorities also welcomed the designation for the economic and tourist impact it will bring to the Lancashire region. It will not, moreover, be the only major event imminently in the club’s calendar. Before the men’s 2028 Open, Royal Lytham & St Annes r will receive this year the AIG Women’s Open, which will be played from 29 July to 2 August with the world’s best players in contention.
Thus, one of the classic temples of British golf will once again be placed at the centre of the global map, already preparing the return of the Open to a venue steeped in tradition.
