The Open 2015: Tom Watson’s special Open Championship quintet

Tour

Jul 10, 2015

Watson’s illustrious career included eight major championships, five of which were at The Open. We look back on each victory

1975, CARNOUSTIE

In his first Open, Watson makes his way through the field to earn a play-off with Australia’s Jack Newton, ahead of Bobby Cole. In the 18-hole play-off, a par at the final hole is enough to win by one.

1977, TURNBERRY

The Duel in the Sun sees Watson and Nicklaus finish 10 shots clear of the field. A pair of 65s over the weekend leaves Watson one clear of his great rival.

1980, MUIRFIELD

In the first Open to finish on a Sunday, Watson’s final round is a masterclass. He finishes four clear of the field leaving Trevino, Crenshaw, Carl Mason and Nicklaus in his wake.

1982, TROON

Making his Open debut, Bobby Clampett leads by five at halfway before Nick Price leads the group of big names trying to reel him in.

A one-shot lead for the last day is not enough and it becomes a two-horse race with Watson hitting the front at the very end as Price falters coming home.

1983, BIRKDALE

Watson holds off late charges from Graham Marsh, Andy Bean and Hale Irwin to win by a single stroke thanks to a peerless 2 iron into the heart of the final green.

The Open 2015: An exclusive interview with Tom Watson

Tom’s Open record

Played: 37
Wins: 5
Runner-up: 2
Top 10s 3 | MCs: 10
WD: 1