For more than a century, the Australian Open golf tournament has been the centerpiece of the golf calendar Down Under. This is not surprising considering the history and prestige that precedes the tournament known also as the Stonehaven Cup.
The golf tournament was first played in 1904 as a regular event for local players to showcase their talents. A century and nearly a decade hence since Michael Scott lifted the first Stonehaven Cup, the Australian Open has evolved into an international event that has been bestowed the honor of being the "fifth" Major. Although not in the same league as the British Open, U.S. Open, PGA Championship, and the Masters, the Australian Open has had its share of the spotlight.
Despite the inclusion of international players in its roster of competitors, the Australian Open golf tournament essentially remains a playground for local players. Proof of that is the domination of Australians in the winner's circle. In fact, Australians have won all but one of the last ten editions of the tournament. The only non-Australian to win the tournament during the period is South African Tim Clark, who won via playoff against local player Mathew Goggin in 2008.
Some of the biggest names in the history of golf have won their share of the Australian Open golf tournament limelight, with Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Arnold Palmer among whose names are engraved on the Stonehaven Cup. Gary Player holds several tournament records, including for most wins with seven and the lowest total score in relation to par with 28-under set during the 1965 edition.
The golf tournament is held late in the year, long after the four Majors have been played. The tournament's current home is the Lakes Golf Club in Sydney. The tournament's popularity has increased over the past couple of years, thanks to better television coverage and stronger international contingent, which included such big stars as Tiger Woods and Fred Couples among others.
As golf continues to grow as a sport, so will the Australian Open further enhance its reputation as a major event worthy of the time and effort of the biggest stars of the game. Increasing the prize money and boosting the competition are only two of the things that can further push the tournament to the top. Until then, the Australian Open golf tournament will remain to be known as one of the most prestigious events Down Under.
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