The "Golden Bear" and 18-time major winner won the first of his three Opens and completed the first of his three career grand slams along the southeastern Scottish coast in 1966, then called the par-71 layout "the best golf course in Britain."

On banners and flags and buntings of grandstands there are images of the claret jug, a reminder of what's at stake at the British Open. But add this to the list of what makes golf's oldest championship so distinct from the other majors: Every year it feels like a new experience.

SportsLine golf expert Brady Kannon just locked in his PGA Tour best bets for the 2025 Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club

Set the coffee pot for the wee hours of the morning, because we’re heading to Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland for the British Open this week. It’s going to be an early start for fans in the United States, but it should be well worth it with all of the drama and the fantastic return to links-style golf that should excite golf fans far and wide.

Golf’s oldest major returns to Royal Portrush this week with the world’s best players gathered in Northern Ireland for the 153rd Open Championship.