Tommy Fleetwood once told the Open Championship podcast that if he lifted the Claret Jug he would be happy never to hit a golf ball again. But he admits that is just not going to happen, although the Claret Jug part may well do, of course, because his Open record suggests there is a very strong possibility he will be acclaimed as the Champion Golfer of the Year before too long.
It could easily happen at Royal Troon this year, given that Fleetwood’s last four Open starts have included a runner-up finish, a share of 4th and a tie for 10th at Royal Liverpool last year. You can also throw in a top 12 at Carnoustie six years ago to underline the Southport star’s love of links golf, an environment he was brought up in just down the road from Royal Birkdale. So it’s no wonder Fleetwood, 33, is widely regarded as an Open winner-in-waiting.
