Carnoustie confirmed for 2029 Open return after 11-year gap

Carnoustie will host the Open Championship in 2029, ending an 11-year wait for the men's major to return to the Angus links. The R&A announced the venue on Monday, with BBC Sport reporting that the championship rounds will run from 19 to 22 July. The event will be the 157th edition of The Open.

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The course last staged the championship in 2018, when Francesco Molinari won, and the 2029 tournament will be its ninth Open. Carnoustie's history as a host began in 1931 with Tommy Armour's victory. The Open's official venue history also records wins by Henry Cotton in 1937 and Ben Hogan in 1953, the latter on his only appearance in the championship.

The list of winners also includes Gary Player in 1968 and Tom Watson in 1975, when Watson won on his Open debut. Paul Lawrie's victory followed in 1999, while Padraig Harrington beat Sergio Garcia in a playoff in 2007. BBC Sport noted that Lawrie remains the last Scottish player to have won the Claret Jug.

R&A chief executive Mark Darbon said the organiser had worked with Carnoustie on venue improvements intended to support future Opens. He thanked the course's ownership and management, the Scottish Government and local authorities for helping secure the return, while identifying the experience of players and spectators as a priority.

Carnoustie Golf Links chief operating officer Ross Blackadder said investment covered the course, facilities and the wider visitor experience. He described securing the championship regularly as an ambition, rather than announcing another date beyond 2029. Supporters can now register their interest in attending the newly confirmed event.

The announcement also continues the R&A's partnership with the Scottish Government and VisitScotland. First Minister John Swinney highlighted the tournament's contribution to tourism and jobs, while Angus Council leader George Meechan said the authority would work with organisers and local partners to prepare for visitors. Carnoustie follows the Old Course at St Andrews in 2027 and Royal Lytham in 2028 on the Open schedule, according to BBC Sport.