[Golf Topic] The Oldest Major, The Open... Canceled Due to COVID-19?

The Open Championship's winning trophy, the 'Claret Jug'.

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] ○…There are reports that the 'oldest major' The Open may be canceled.

On the 2nd (Korean time), Golf Digest USA reported, "Confirmed through multiple sources," stating, "The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A) plans to cancel this year's The Open due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)." An announcement regarding the cancellation is expected as early as the 3rd. The 149th Open this year (total prize money of $10.75 million) was scheduled to be held over four days from July 16 at the Royal St George's Golf Club in Sandwich, Kent, England.

The Open has not been missed a single year since 1945, when it was not held due to the impact of World War II. As of the morning of this day, England has reported about 29,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases and over 2,300 deaths. Since the end of last month, all golf course facilities in the England region have been closed. Among the four major championships in 2020, the Masters and PGA Championship have already been postponed indefinitely, and the US Open, scheduled to start in June, is also expected to be canceled or postponed.