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The 155th Open
18 September 2026
St Andrews in quotes
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What players say about legendary venue for The 155th Open
For generations, the world’s best golfers have tried to put into words what makes St Andrews so special.
Many point to its history, and the magic moments witnessed there through the ages.
Some speak of the unique test it poses with its strong winds, notoriously difficult bunkers and giant double greens.
Others refer to its iconic setting, in a town where golf had been played for hundreds of years before it first staged The Open in 1873.
As the Championship prepares to return to the venue in July 2027, we look back at what the players say about this special setting. This is St Andrews, in their words.
Jack Nicklaus
Jack Nicklaus at St Andrews in 1978.
“I fell in love with it the first day I played it. There's just no other golf course that is even remotely close.” Jack Nicklaus, Champion Golfer at St Andrews in 1970 and 1978
Tiger Woods
“It may be years before I fully appreciate it, but I am inclined to believe that winning The Open at the home of golf is the ultimate achievement in the sport.” Tiger Woods after winning The Open at St Andrews in 2000
Seve Ballesteros
Seve Ballesteros celebrates his triumph at St Andrews.
“That was the happiest moment of my whole sporting life. My moment of glory. My most fantastic shot.” Seve Ballesteros on the moment he won The Open at St Andrews in 1984
Bobby Jones
Bobby Jones claimed the Claret Jug in 1927.
“I could take out of my life everything except my experiences at St Andrews and I would still have a rich, full life.” Bobby Jones, who won The Open at St Andrews as an amateur in 1927
Sir Nick Faldo
“To win at St Andrews is special. It’s the home of golf and there’s something special about that town. And if you could have one choice you want [to win] one there.” Sir Nick Faldo, who won The Open at St Andrews in 1990
Cameron Smith
“To win an Open Championship in itself is probably going to be a golfer's highlight in their career. To do it around St Andrews, I think is just unbelievable. This place is so cool. I love the golf course. I love the town.” Cameron Smith after winning The 150th Open at St Andrews in 2022
Zach Johnson
“This is the birthplace of a great game and a place that has fantastic fans. For those that love the game, [St Andrews] needs to be on their bucket list. I love playing it.” Zach Johnson after winning The 144th Open at St Andrews
Rory McIlroy
“"The amount of great players that have won there, the history of the place, the atmosphere, the feeling. There’s just some sort of nostalgic feel you get when you walk onto the first tee. It’s the perfect venue to win an Open Championship."” Rory McIlroy, Champion Golfer of 2014
Collin Morikawa
Collin Morikawa competing at The 150th Open.
“The love for the game, the love for the sport. I think kind of breathes and lives through the town [of St Andrews].” Collin Morikawa, Champion Golfer of 2021
Jordan Spieth
Jordan Spieth in action at The 144th Open in 2015.
“I've watched The Open Championships here at St Andrews, and I don't think there's anything more special in golf than playing an Open Championship at the home of golf.” Jordan Spieth, 2017 Champion Golfer
