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TROON, Scotland - The golfing world has well and truly turned its attention to Scotland this week as the nation's golfing stars and the game's best players have descended on the historic Royal Troon Golf Club for the final men's major of the season. While the golf won't begin in earnest until Thursday's opening round, players and observers were out in full force on Monday to begin preparations and get a first look at the storied Scottish links as it presents itself for The Open. As the long-time golf writer for Golfaq.com, I was on site to observe Monday's action and here are my key takeaways from the first day:
1. Keegan Bradley Emerges as New Captain
One of the most notable presences out on the course on Monday was undoubtedly Keegan Bradley. Fresh off being named as captain of the United States' Ryder Cup team for 2025, Bradley carried himself with the assuredness and purpose of a leader. It was clear from watching him that Bradley has truly embraced his new high-profile role and all that comes with it. With a solid recent run of form as well, Bradley could factor prominently at Troon both as a player and potential captain.
2. Royal Troon's Fickle Nature on Display
After some rain in the lead-up, the undulating links of Royal Troon showed its capacity for dramatically different playing conditions. While some areas were softened, others featured thick, penalizing rough. Most iconic perhaps was the proliferation of dandelions dotted throughout, adding aesthetic charm. Troon's changeable nature will surely challenge all week as weather impacts the evolving test it presents.
3. Treacherous 8th Awaits Players
One of the holes generating most early intrigue was undoubtedly the famous Postage Stamp 8th, where a simple sand wedge becomes a nerve-wracking proposition. Players getting their first looks afforded little margin for error, only reinforcing this short par-3's legendary status. Come Thursday, the 8th could make or break campaigns with even the mildest of breezes wreaking havoc.
4. Troon's Hidden Gems Emerging
While the 8th steals much of the limelight, Royal Troon arguably has more demanding tests elsewhere on the front side. In particular, the 6th offers a thrilling risk-reward proposition players will be tempted by, while the 507-yard 7th demands both accuracy and power. These hidden gems will certainly present many talking points over the championship.
5. Harman Returns Claret Jug in Style
In a nod to tradition but with a modern twist, reigning champion Brian Harman arrived in an electric-blue Mercedes G-Wagon to return the iconic trophy. It was a fittingly stylish appearance befitting Harman's championship victory last year. His return of the Claret Jug officially marks the start of the battle to hoist it once more come Sunday evening.
Powerful and elegant in all terrains.
— The Open (@TheOpen) July 14, 2024
Brian Harman and the all-new electric G-Class from Mercedes-Benz take centre stage tomorrow as the Claret Jug returns for The 152nd Open.@mercedesbenz | #ROTCJ pic.twitter.com/avzs6VOfnj
References: https://golf.com/news/5-observations-open-championship-monday-troon/
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