The Open Championship has provided some of the most dramatic and iconic moments in golf for a number of good and bad reasons. Whether it was Seve’s famous win in 1984 at St Andrews, or Jean van de Velde’s collapse in 1999, there have been many memorable moments surrounding the Claret Jug.
One of the most gut-wrenching came in 2003 at Royal St Georges when, with four holes to go during the final round, Thomas Bjorn held a three shot lead. However, following a bogey at the 15th, the Dane infamously needed three attempts to play out of a greenside bunker on the 16th hole. In the end, he lost by one shot to Ben Curtis.
It’s a moment that can change a golfer’s career and mindset for some time. However, following the collapse in 2003, the Dane went on to enjoy a hugely successful career, with Bjorn securing eight European Tour titles (15 in total) and multiple Ryder Cup victories, including one as Captain in 2018.
Perks of winning The Open
At The 150th Open Championship, during an enthralling third round, Bjorn revealed that week had “hit home”, with the 51-year-old tweeting: “People often ask me if I think about the 2003 Open. The honest answer is that after 19 years I really don’t. However, this week it has hit home. Especially on Monday with the celebration of golf and on Tuesday with the champions dinner. You suddenly take a moment and realise it could have all been so different.
“You could have been part of such a special club if things had taken another turn. You also realise that no money in the world can buy you a seat at that table. It’s all about achievement. St Andrew’s has been amazing this week.” In his final tweet, Bjorn added “tomorrow (Sunday) will be one of the most memorable days in golf history.”
1/2 People often ask me if I think about the 2003 Open. The honest answer is that after 19 years I really don’t. However, this week it has hit home. Especially on Monday with the celebration of golf and on Tuesday with the champions dinner. You suddenly take a moment and realiseJuly 16, 2022
Beginning the final day, Rory…
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