What title is given to the winner at the end of the 2026 Open Championship?

The winner of the 2026 Open Championship will be known as the Champion Golfer of the Year.

This is the traditional title awarded to the winner of The Open, golf’s oldest major championship. It is not the same as winning the Masters, the U.S. Open, or the PGA Championship, each of which has its own champion and trophy. The event is scheduled for Royal Birkdale in England in 2026.

The wording reflects The Open’s long British history. The championship was first played at Prestwick in 1860, and its winner was traditionally recognised as the leading golfer of the year. The title remains part of the ceremony and identity of the tournament, even though modern golf also uses rankings, prize money, and major-championship records to measure success.

A common mix-up is with the Race to Dubai Champion, which is awarded for performance across the DP World Tour season, or the FedEx Cup Champion, which recognises the PGA Tour season finale. Those are separate honours.