The Open, one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments, is set to take place from July 12-19, 2026, at the renowned Royal Birkdale in Southport, Merseyside. This year, the spotlight is on Haotong Li, who made headlines during his debut at The Open in 2017, finishing third and recording a final-round score of 63—the lowest major round by a Chinese golfer.
Li’s impressive performance not only marked a significant milestone for him personally but also for Chinese golf, as he is considered one of the finest golfers the country has ever produced. His journey since that memorable debut has been closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as he continues to push the boundaries of his capabilities on the international stage.
In addition to Li’s achievements, The Open has partnered with Ben Lomond Gin, which has been the official gin of the tournament since 2023. This collaboration has introduced a unique element to the event, blending the world of golf with the art of mixology. Elsie Cinnamond, a representative of Ben Lomond Gin, expressed enthusiasm for the campaign, stating, “Our official serve of The Open campaign has been hugely successful in the past, and we’re excited to open it up even further this year by inviting both professional bartenders and those with a passion for mixology to take part.”
The campaign invites both professional and amateur bartenders to create cocktails inspired by The Open, with submissions being accepted through a dedicated portal. The winner will not only receive VIP tickets to the championships but also a cash prize, adding an exciting competitive edge to the event. Cinnamond emphasized the importance of storytelling in mixology, saying, “Taste is obviously important, but at Ben Lomond Gin we believe the greatest serves come with a great story, and we are always excited to hear the inspiration behind each cocktail.”
As the tournament approaches, the anticipation builds not only for the golf but also for the cocktail competition that has become a staple of the event. Last year’s winner crafted a cocktail inspired by his grandmother, showcasing the personal connections that can be made through food and drink. This year, observers are eager to see what innovative concoctions will emerge from the bartenders’ creativity.
With Li’s remarkable history at The Open and the growing influence of brands like Ben Lomond Gin, the 154th Open promises to be a memorable event. As golf enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados prepare for the tournament, the blending of these two worlds highlights the evolving nature of The Open, making it not just a sporting event but a celebration of culture and creativity.
As the date approaches, details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific participants in the cocktail competition and the final lineup of golfers. However, the excitement surrounding The Open continues to build, with fans eagerly awaiting the chance to witness both athletic excellence and culinary artistry on display.