When one thinks of links golf, there is always one name which immediately springs to mind: Tom Watson.
A winner of eight Major Championships and five Senior Major Championships, Watson is unquestionably one of the best links players in the sport of golf.
After his first practice round at Royal Porthcawl in 2014, Watson said: “I really fell in love with it immediately. It’s a great golf course.”
We will once again be graced with his presence in 2017 as the Senior Open Championship Presented by Rolex returns to the Bridgend links next July.
He lifted the Claret Jug five times in the space of seven years as he secured five of his Major Championship victories at The Open. Since joining the Senior Tour, he is one of just two players to win the Senior Open three times; sharing that honour with Gary Player.
The 67 year old is still a regular on the PGA TOUR Champions circuit in the United States and proves he still has what it takes to play alongside the emerging over-50s players. He participated in eight events this season, finishing inside the top 25 on four occasions.
Even on the hallowed turf of Augusta earlier this year, site of two Masters Tournament victories, his driving accuracy was 78.57% - sixth highest of all participants at this year’s tournament, and more than ten per cent higher than eventual winner Danny Willett.
He has 71 professional victories to his name and is tied for 11th on the PGA TOUR all-time winners list.
His last victory may have been in 2011 but, with the sea air in his lungs, you wouldn’t put it past him showcasing why he is regarded by many as one of the best golfers in history.
Clickhereto purchase tickets and secure your spot at the Welsh links next July.
