British Open Playoff Format and History

The Open Championship is heating up, and fans are buzzing about a possible playoff on Sunday at Royal Troon. The leaderboard is tight, and with nearly a dozen players within striking distance entering the final round, the stage is set for an exciting finish.

While playoffs are relatively rare in golf, the last major to require a playoff was the 2022 PGA Championship, where Justin Thomas emerged victorious over Will Zalatoris. The potential for a playoff loomed at both the PGA Championship and U.S. Open this year, with Bryson DeChambeau being a contender in both cases.

So, how would a playoff work at the Open Championship? The tournament boasts a four-hole aggregate playoff format, with golfers playing holes 1, 2, 17, and 18 for the chance to win a major. If players are still tied after the four holes, they will proceed to a sudden-death playoff at the No. 18 hole.

In the history of the British Open, there have been 20 playoffs, with the last one occurring in 2015. The tournament has seen some memorable playoff moments over the years, with legends like Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, and Padraig Harrington emerging victorious.

As the final round unfolds at Royal Troon, all eyes will be on the leaderboard to see if a playoff will be required to determine this year’s champion. Stay tuned for updates as the drama unfolds in one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments.