The list of players who have clinched both the U.S. Open and The Open Championship in the same year reads like a who’s who of golfing legends: Bobby Jones, Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Lee Trevino, Tom Watson, and Tiger Woods.
This year, Bryson DeChambeau is looking to etch his name alongside these icons.
After a nail-biting one-shot victory at the U.S. Open in June, DeChambeau is riding high on momentum as he heads to Royal Troon for The Open.
DeChambeau’s 2024 season has been nothing short of spectacular. Kicking things off with a career-best T6 at the Masters, he followed it up with a solo 2nd at the PGA Championship, before claiming his second U.S. Open title at Pinehurst No. 2. Now, the Crushers GC captain is eyeing a historic double—a feat last achieved by Tiger Woods in 2000.
This year’s Open Championship at Royal Troon features a strong contingent of LIV Golf players, with 16 full-time competitors ready to take on the storied course.
Among them are past champions like Louis Oosthuizen, Phil Mickelson, Henrik Stenson, and Cameron Smith.
These seasoned pros are joined by recent major winners Brooks Koepka, Jon Rahm, and, of course, DeChambeau himself.
Key Players to Watch
Bryson DeChambeau, with his powerful drives and strategic prowess, is a top contender.
His best finish at The Open is T8 at St. Andrews in 2022, and he’s looking to improve on that.
With a collective 28 under par in the first three majors of the year, he’s shown that he’s in top form.
Phil Mickelson, the 2013 Open champion, returns to Royal Troon where he had an unforgettable duel with Henrik Stenson in 2016.
Mickelson considers his Open victory as his crowning achievement and will be looking to add another memorable chapter to his storied career.
Brooks Koepka, a five-time major winner, comes into The Open with victories at the PGA Championship in 2019 and 2023.
Known for his ability to perform under pressure, Koepka has a proven track record in majors and could be a formidable challenger at Troon.
Cameron Smith, the 2022 Open champion, has been in fine form with three LIV Golf individual wins this year.
His victory at St. Andrews showcased his ability to excel on links courses, making him a serious threat.
Rising Stars and Veterans
Dean Burmester and Joaquin Niemann have earned their spots through the Open Qualifying Series.
Burmester’s win at the Joburg Open and Niemann’s victory at the Australian Open underline their capabilities and readiness to compete on the big stage.
Newcomers like Andy Ogletree and David Puig, who qualified through their International Federation Rankings, are making their Open debuts.
Ogletree, a top performer on the Asian Tour, and Puig, the second-youngest player in the 2024 LIV Golf League, are looking to make a mark in their first major.
Past and Present Champions
Henrik Stenson’s win at Royal Troon in 2016 remains a highlight of his career, marking him as the first male Scandinavian golfer to win a major.
Stenson’s final-round 63 that year is still his lowest score in 219 career major rounds, showcasing his ability to perform in clutch moments.
Jon Rahm, the 2021 U.S. Open and 2023 Masters champion, is back in action after missing the U.S. Open due to a foot infection.
With two top-3 finishes in the last three Opens, Rahm is a strong contender and one to watch closely.
The Competitive Field
The 2024 Open Championship promises a thrilling contest with a mix of seasoned champions and emerging talents.
The pressure and prestige of Royal Troon, combined with the ambition and skill of the LIV Golf players, set the stage for an unforgettable tournament.
Bryson DeChambeau’s quest for a historic double adds an extra layer of excitement, making this year’s Open a must-watch event.
