The 10 Oldest Golf Tournaments in the World

Golf has a long and rich history, dating back to 15th-century Scotland. As the game evolved, so did the idea of competitive play, leading to the establishment of some of the most prestigious tournaments that still exist today.

While The Masters is one of the most recognizable tournaments in the world, it is relatively young, having begun in 1934. In contrast, several national opens and amateur events date back to the 19th century, cementing their place as historic pillars of the sport.

Here, we look at the 10 oldest golf tournaments in the world, celebrating their legacies and the impact they’ve had on the sport. If you want to play in timeless style, Function18 offers premium golf apparel and footwear from the world’s top brands, ensuring you look and feel your best every round.

The Open Championship (Founded 1860)

Often referred to as The Open, this is the oldest golf tournament in the world and remains one of the four majors in men’s golf.

First played on October 17, 1860, at Prestwick Golf Club in Scotland.
The first winner, Willie Park Sr., defeated Old Tom Morris by two strokes.
Originally held at Prestwick, The Open moved to St Andrews in 1873 and has since rotated among the UK’s most historic links courses.
The champion is crowned “Champion Golfer of the Year” and awarded the Claret Jug—first introduced in 1872.

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The Amateur Championship (Founded 1885)

Regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious amateur golf tournaments, The Amateur Championship (formerly the British Amateur) has shaped many legendary careers.

First played at Royal Liverpool Golf Club in 1885.
Originally recognized as a major championship before professional golf took centre stage post-WWII.
Match-play format has remained a staple, testing players’ mental and strategic game.

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The Women’s Amateur Championship (Founded 1893)

Women’s golf was cemented on the world stage with the Women’s Amateur Championship, one of the sport’s most prestigious events.

First played in 1893, this tournament is the oldest women’s golf championship.
Lady Margaret Scott won the first three editions, setting the early standard for women’s competitive golf.
The champion receives entry into multiple women’s major championships, making it a stepping stone for future stars.

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Australian Amateur (Founded 1894)

First played in 1894, this is Australia’s oldest golf tournament.
Past champions include Cameron Smith (2013) and Michael Campbell (1992).
Alternated between match play and stroke play, before switching exclusively to 72-hole stroke play in 2021.

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Canadian Amateur Championship (Founded 1895)

Established in June 1895, this is the third-oldest men’s amateur championship.
Originally played in match play, it now follows a stroke play format.
The champion receives entry into the RBC Canadian Open and other professional events.

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U.S. Open (Founded 1895)

First played on October 4, 1895, as a 36-hole, one-day competition.
Won by Horace Rawlins, who took home $150 from a $335 purse.
Now regarded as one of the toughest tests in golf, with highly challenging course setups.

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U.S. Amateur Championship (Founded 1895)

Established just days after the first U.S. Open.
A 64-player match play format follows a two-day stroke play qualifier.
Past champions include Tiger Woods, Bobby Jones, and Jack Nicklaus.

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U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship (Founded 1895)

The first women’s golf tournament in the U.S., won by Lucy Barnes Brown.
Uses a match-play format similar to the U.S. Amateur.
Champions earn entry into women’s major tournaments, making it a gateway to LPGA success.

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South African Open Championship (Founded 1903)

One of the oldest national opens in golf history.
First won by Laurie Waters in 1903.
Gary Player holds the record for most wins (13).

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Canadian Open (Founded 1904)

The oldest PGA TOUR event outside the majors.
First played in 1904 and has run yearly except during wartime and COVID-19.
Past champions include Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Rory McIlroy.

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Conclusion: A Legacy of Competitive Golf

These 10 oldest golf tournaments showcase the sport’s rich tradition and global appeal. Whether competing in a club championship or refining your game, having the right apparel and footwear is key.

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