Open Championship bunkered by virus

The St Andrews-based R&A confirmed earlier this afternoon (Monday) that the 149th Open Championship at Royal St George’s would not be played because of coronavirus.

There had been hope that the event would get the green light, or even be played behind closed doors. But, with the July 16 tee off date edging closer, the logistics of delaying any longer became impossible.

The 149th Open will now be held next year at Royal St George’s, with the 150th, at St Andrews pushed back until 2022.

All of golf’s other Majors had already been cancelled but there is a suggestion they may be played in the latter part of 2020.