Tom Watson won a fourth Open title on a fourth different Scottish links as he reigned supreme at Royal Troon – joining an illustrious club in the process.
In the world of golf, some victories are etched into history with a brilliance that never fades.
One such remarkable moment unfolded in the summer of 1982 when Tom Watson, a name synonymous with excellence in the sport, clinched his fourth Open Championship title.
This major golf championship, the 111th of its kind, took place at the prestigious Royal Troon Golf Club in Troon, Scotland, from July 15th to 18th.
Tom Watson’s Victory
The 1982 Open Championship saw Tom Watson at the peak of his golfing prowess.
With nerves of steel and a mastery of the links, he emerged as the champion, winning by a margin of just one stroke over his closest competitors, Peter Oosterhuis and Nick Price.
This triumph marked his fourth Open Championship victory and his seventh out of eight major titles.
A Remarkable Double
Tom Watson’s win at Royal Troon was not just another victory; it was his second consecutive major win of the year.
A mere month earlier, he had secured the U.S. Open title, demonstrating his incredible consistency and skill on the golf course.
This remarkable achievement made him only the fifth golfer in history to achieve the impressive feat of winning both the U.S. Open and the Open Championship in the same year.
Joining Golfing Legends
In achieving this remarkable double, Tom Watson joined an elite group of golfing legends.
His name was now etched alongside the likes of Bobby Jones, Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, and Lee Trevino, all of whom had previously accomplished the same feat.
It was a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.
Tiger Woods’ Following Suit
Tom Watson’s feat in 1982 inspired future generations of golfers to strive for greatness.
Two decades later, in the year 2000, another golfing sensation, Tiger Woods, would emulate Watson’s success by winning both the U.S. Open and the Open Championship in the same year. The torch had been passed, and the legacy continued.
A Love Affair with Scotland
For Tom Watson, the Open Championship held a special place in his heart, particularly in Scotland.
Before his 1982 victory at Royal Troon, he had secured three previous Open Championship titles on Scottish soil, at Carnoustie in 1975, Turnberry in 1977, and Muirfield in 1980.
His affinity for the challenging Scottish links courses was undeniable, and his golfing prowess was truly something to behold.
