The Open Championship is the golf major organized by The R&A and associated with links courses. It is a particular championship, not a general description for every tournament that allows open qualification. The venue changes between editions, so the course name is part of useful viewing context. Links golf places attention on the ground as well as the air: contours, landing areas and changing wind can alter the sensible route to a hole. Following a full round shows those decisions more clearly than a collection of putts. Across the championship's four rounds, the leaderboard is cumulative. The final-day story often combines players finishing earlier with the groups still out on the course.
How the viewing session is organised
A four-round major at a specified links venue, with cumulative scoring and conditions changing during long coverage windows.
Useful answers
Is The Open played at the same course every year?
No. The official 2027 guide identifies St Andrews, while the 2026 championship was at Royal Birkdale. Check the edition and venue when finding a fixture or replay.
Why can players choose different shots from a similar distance?
Wind, turf, hazards and the shape of the landing area can make a lower or running shot preferable to a high approach. Distance alone does not explain the decision.