After a hard fought battle Sandy Lyle becomes the first British player to win The Open since Tony Jacklin won the Open Championship in 1969
The world of golf witnessed an unforgettable moment in 1985 when the 114th Open Championship took place at the prestigious Royal St George’s Golf Club in Sandwich, England.
This major men’s golf championship, which unfolded from July 18th to 21st, is etched in history as the year Sandy Lyle claimed his only Open Championship title, edging out runner-up Payne Stewart by a mere stroke.
It was a defining moment in Lyle’s career, as he went on to add a coveted green jacket as the Masters champion in 1988.
Sandy Lyle’s Triumph
Sandy Lyle’s victory at the 1985 Open Championship marked a turning point in his golfing career.
With nerves of steel and impeccable precision, Lyle secured his place in history.
His one-stroke lead over the talented Payne Stewart showcased his exceptional skill and determination.
This championship was particularly memorable because it was the first of Lyle’s two major titles.
The victory not only solidified his reputation as a formidable golfer but also propelled him onto the global stage of golfing legends.
His name would forever be associated with the history of the Open Championship.
A Farewell to the Double Cut
The 1985 Open Championship was significant for another reason—it marked the end of an era.
It was the last year in which the Open Championship featured the double cut, a tradition that had been in place since 1968.
The double cut meant that there were two rounds of cuts, the first after 36 holes and the second after 54 holes.
One of the most surprising aspects of this historic championship was the fact that even the legendary Jack Nicklaus, whose Open Championship career dated back to 1962, was not exempt from the cut.
This was the first time in his illustrious career that he had faced such a setback.
The world watched in awe and reverence as the tournament unfolded, realizing that even one of the greatest of all time could be humbled by the challenges of the Royal St George’s Golf Club
