Tiger Woods Set for Potential Final St Andrews Showdown as 2027 British Open Returns

The British Open will make its anticipated return to St Andrews in 2027, potentially offering Tiger Woods a final opportunity to grace his beloved course and perhaps take a moment to reflect as he crosses the iconic Swilcan Bridge.

The R&A (Royal and Ancient Golf Club) confirmed on Thursday that the sport’s oldest major championship will visit the home of golf for the 31st time, more than any other venue in the rotation. The last Open at the Old Course took place in 2022, where Cameron Smith secured victory with a remarkable closing round of 64, one of the most memorable finishes in major championship history.

Mark Darbon, who stepped into the role of chief executive of the R&A last month, expressed his exhilaration about his first announcement being a return to the Old Course.

“I can hardly contain my excitement for the Open returning to St Andrews, just like the fans and players,” Darbon stated.

“There’s something truly exceptional about hosting the Open on the Old Course, a course that has welcomed so many legendary champions since the inaugural event here in 1873.”

The selection of St Andrews for 2027 indicates that Muirfield, situated east of Edinburgh and which last hosted the Open in 2013, will likely not be revisiting until at least 2028, potentially longer, to avoid consecutive Opens being held in the same locale.

Historically, Muirfield has not gone more than 11 years without hosting the Open, barring interruptions due to the World Wars.

Tiger Woods triumphed at St Andrews in 2000 during his majestic sweep of the majors, winning by an impressive eight strokes, thus becoming the youngest golfer at 24 to achieve the career Grand Slam. He replicated his victory at the Old Course in 2005.

In 2022, Woods feared that his appearance, in which he missed the cut, might signify his final foray, uncertain when the Open might return to the Old Course. Nonetheless, many of the sport’s greatest — including Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Tom Watson — have paused at the storied Swilcan Bridge spanning the 18th fairway, taking in the moment and capturing commemorative photos.

“Stop! Stop!” photographers called out to Woods in 2022. He briefly removed his cap a few steps before reaching the bridge but continued onward.

“That’s my favourite golf course in the world, and if that’s it, then that’s it,” Woods reflected that day.

“That’s one of the reasons I felt quite emotional because I’m unsure if I’ll get another chance to play St Andrews again. I will compete in future Open Championships, but I don’t know if I’ll still be around when it returns to this timeless place,” Woods added.

Having played at Royal Troon last year, Woods intends to participate in the event at Royal Portrush this coming July. By the time the Open returns to St Andrews in 2027, he will be 51 years old.

The R&A reported that 290,000 spectators attended the Open in 2022 at St Andrews, marking the highest attendance of any Open held in Scotland. This factor likely influenced the decision to return to St Andrews over Muirfield, which has a limited capacity for fans.

Under Martin Slumbers’ leadership, there was a consistent focus on elevating the profile of significant events with substantial crowds.

“St Andrews is recognised as the home of golf, creating an unparalleled atmosphere for both fans and players, while also offering a thrilling spectacle for millions tuning in worldwide,” Darbon concluded.

“This upcoming event is set to be another landmark occasion at one of sports’ most esteemed and historic venues, and we will spare no effort in ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.”