Royal Troon got the exhilarating Open Championship it deserved

As the sun sets on another pulsating Open, I can’t help but think Royal Troon was the real winner of this contest.

Yes, Xander Schauffele will return to the States with extra hand luggage after lifting the famous Claret Jug, but when the 158 golfers who took part this weekend think back on this 2024 Championship, one thing will stick out – the course.

Royal Troon provided the background to one of the most gruelling and testing four rounds of golf any of these elite players will ever have experienced.

The rolling hills, thick rough and high winds – a perfect combo for a spectator but a nightmare combo for a golfer.

The quarter of a million record crowd who came to South Ayrshire this week were thoroughly entertained.

There’s something about this famous old golf tournament returning to the shores where the game was first crafted that makes it extra special.

Scotland knows how to put on an Open Championship. Royal Troon knows how to put on an Open Championship.

Walking around the course and speaking to many different spectators from many different countries, the one constant was their love for this place.

As you walk around the hallowed grounds, you do so in the knowledge you are walking in the footsteps of past champions like Tom Watson and Arnold Palmer.

The set up was superb, not just the golf course but the entire Open experience.

The fan zone with something for everyone, from champagne bars to food from around the world

The practice grounds where you could reach out and touch your golfing idols.

And the course – where 18 holes of pure golfing art allow you to watch the best in the world fight it out for glory

As I stood at the 18th green on Sunday afternoon and watched the tournament draw to a close – the moment of the day was clear.

Step forward 20-year-old Calum Scott. An amateur from Nairn who had everyone on their feet as he finished his round.

With tears in his eyes, he marched up the famous 18th hole as the leading amateur – winning the Silver Medal and joining the likes of previous recipients Tiger Woods and Justin Rose.

A Scot on home soil providing one of the stories of these Championships.

In the end it was the USPGA Champion Schauffele who reigned supreme – the 7th American in the last eight years to win the Open at Royal Troon.

A worthy winner who I’m sure will look back on this victory as one of his best and toughest wins of his trophy-laden career.

So, as the golfing circus gets ready to pack up and leave town I have no doubts Royal Troon will stay with them forever.

The world of golf will never forget the week it spent on the shores of the Firth of Clyde, the week where they were battered by wind and rain, getting a taste of a Scottish summer – and the week where, quite simply, Royal Troon stole the show.