Open Winners at Turnberry Scotland Played on The Ailsa Course , located on the stunning Ayrshire coast of Scotland, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and challenging design. Opened in 1902, the course was initially designed by Old Tom Morris but underwent significant renovations by Donald Steel in the 1990s to enhance its playability and aesthetics.The course features dramatic coastal views, with the iconic Ailsa Craig island visible from several holes. Its layout incorporates both the natural landscape and strategic hazards, including deep bunkers and undulating greens that challenge golfers of all skill levels.The Open Championship, one of golf's four major championships, has been held at Turnberry multiple times. Notably, the 1977 Open famously featured the duel between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus, often referred to as “The Duel in the Sun.” Watson’s victory in that tournament was a significant moment in golf history, showcasing the challenge and prestige of the Ailsa Course.In 2009, Turnberry hosted The Open again, where Stewart Cink emerged victorious, further solidifying the course’s reputation as a premier venue for championship golf. The combination of its stunning vistas, rich history, and the legacy of The Open contributes to the allure of the Ailsa Course, making it a must-visit destination for avid golfers and fans of the sport alike.

1977: Tom Watson
The 1977 Open Championship, held at Turnberry in Scotland, is widely remembered for the epic "Duel in the Sun" between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus. Over the course of the tournament, both players showcased exceptional skill and competitive spirit, leading to a dramatic head-to-head battle.
Watson entered the final round two strokes behind Nicklaus, who was defending his title as a two-time Open champion. The final day unfolded with remarkable tension as both golfers played at their best. Watson's opening birdie set the tone for an exciting round. He displayed incredible accuracy and relentless determination, responding to every challenge posed by Nicklaus.
As the round progressed, the two legends exchanged momentum. They each made birdies and faced tough shots, all while a passionate crowd cheered them on. The defining moment came on the 15th hole when Watson made a crucial birdie, pulling ahead of Nicklaus. He finished the tournament with a round of 65, securing a total score of 283.
Watson’s victory, marking his first major championship win, solidified his status as one of golf's premier players. The intense competition and sportsmanship displayed throughout the "Duel in the Sun" remains one of golf's most celebrated moments, highlighting the rivalry between two of the game's greatest icons. Watson's win at Turnberry is not only significant in his career but also a defining moment in Open Championship history.
1986: Greg Norman
Greg Norman's victory at The Open Championship in 1977 at Turnberry is a significant milestone in golf history. The tournament marked only Norman's second appearance at The Open, yet he managed to display an impressive level of skill and composure.
Entering the final day, Norman held a two-shot lead over his competitors. His final round was a mix of precision and resilience, culminating in a score of 68, which secured his first major championship title. The conditions at Turnberry presented challenges, including unpredictable weather, but Norman's strong driving and exceptional putting were key to his success.
Norman's victory was particularly memorable for the dramatic moments on the back nine, where he demonstrated nerves of steel. He finished the tournament with a total score of 277, edging out the runner-up, Tom Watson, by two strokes. This win not only solidified Norman's reputation as a rising star in professional golf but also set the stage for his future successes in the sport. His 1977 Open win remains a defining moment in his illustrious career.
1994: Nick Price
Nick Price's victory at the 1994 Open Championship at Turnberry stands out as a remarkable moment in golf history. Price entered the tournament as one of the favorites, having already established himself as a dominant player on the PGA Tour. His experience and skill were put to the test on the challenging links course.
Over the four days of competition, Price displayed exceptional consistency and confidence. He entered the final round with a narrow lead, but it was his composure under pressure that ultimately secured his win. Price shot a final round of 66, showcasing both his strategic play and impressive putting. His performance was characterized by precise ball striking and crucial birdies that solidified his position atop the leaderboard.
The 1994 Open was particularly notable because it was played in challenging weather conditions, with strong winds and unpredictable rain affecting many players. However, Price managed the elements effectively, demonstrating his adaptability and mental toughness. He finished the tournament at 10 under par, winning by a margin that highlighted both his skill and determination.
This victory marked Price's first major championship win, cementing his legacy in the sport. The triumph was celebrated not only by Price and his fans but also added to the rich history of the Open Championship held at Turnberry, a venue known for its scenic beauty and historic significance in the game of golf.
2009: Stewart Cink
Stewart Cink's victory at the 2009 Open Championship at Turnberry marked a significant moment in golf history. Cink, who entered the final round trailing the legendary Tom Watson, showcased remarkable skill and composure under pressure.
Watson, at the age of 59, was aiming to become the oldest major champion in history. His performance throughout the tournament was stellar, and he held a lead heading into the last day, evoking memories of his past greatness and thrilling fans worldwide. However, as the final round unfolded, Watson struggled with his putting, allowing Cink to capitalize on his opportunity.
Cink played a consistent and steady game, ultimately finishing with a score of 1 under par for the tournament. In a dramatic conclusion, he defeated Watson in a four-hole playoff, securing his first major championship title. This victory not only solidified Cink’s status on the PGA Tour but also underscored the emotional and competitive nature of the game. The 2009 Open Championship at Turnberry remains etched in memory, both for Cink's triumph and Watson's inspiring near-victory.