The R&A have confirmed that Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club will host The 156th Open, marking its return as venue of the major for the first time in 16 years.
The iconic links course in England has been picked to host the 2028 edition of the major over the likes of Donald Trump’s Turnberry Golf Club, which last hosted the event in 2009, and Scotland’s Muirfield, which previously held the event in 2013.
It will be the 12th occasion the Open will be held at Royal Lytham & St Annes, but the first time since 2012 where Ernie Els took advantage of an Adam Scott collapse to collect his second Claret Jug.
Mark Darbon, Chief Executive of The R&A, said, “Royal Lytham & St Annes is widely renowned as one of the world’s finest links courses and has witnessed many great championship moments since The Open was first played there in 1926 when the legendary Bobby Jones won.
“This is one of golf’s most cherished and historic venues and The Open’s return to these famous links will spark huge interest among fans to be part of one of the world’s great sporting events and celebrate the rich traditions of golf’s original Championship.
“We are grateful to the members of Royal Lytham & St Annes and the local authorities for their support in making this happen. We look forward to enjoying another fantastic championship on England’s golf coast in 2028.”
Tim Walker, Chairman of Council at Royal Lytham & St Annes, said, “We are honoured to be chosen as the host venue for The 156th Open in 2028. The Club has a long and successful association with The Open, and we take great pride in our place within the Championship’s history. It is fitting that this announcement comes as we mark 100 years since Bobby Jones’ victory here in 1926 and the granting of our Royal status. We look forward to welcoming the world’s leading players, together with spectators and audiences from across the globe, to our links on England’s golf coast.”
The 2025 Open at Royal Portrush saw world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler produce a convincing performance to claim the title for the first time. This year’s event, The 154th Open, will be held at Royal Birkdale in England between 16-19 July.