The First Minister and deputy First Minister have congratulated
Scottie Scheffler on winning the 153rd Open Championship at Royal
Portrush Golf Club.
The American, who finished four shots clear of the field on 17
under par, collected the coveted Claret Jug on the
18th green of the Dunluce Links in front of thousands
of ecstatic fans.
Hailing the event a magnificent success, First Minister said:
"I want to congratulate Scottie Scheffler on winning The Open –
what a brilliant performance over the past four days.
"Of course he has had so much success on the PGA Tour and in
other tournaments, but I have no doubt this is really special for
him as it is his first time winning golf's oldest major
championship.
“This year's Open has been another money-can't-buy showcase for
our beautiful north coast and the amazing product we have to
offer to visitors and investors. I would like to pay tribute to
all the golfers, the organisers, and of course the fans who
turned out in record numbers, for making this tournament such a
huge success.
"It's been another incredible week for golf fans here, and I know
they will be looking forward to The Open returning to our shores
in the years ahead.”
Deputy First Minister , who was in the
grandstand at the 18th green to see the world's number
one golfer lift the Claret Jug, said:
"I am absolutely delighted for Scottie Scheffler, winning his
fourth major here at the magnificent Royal Portrush Golf Club.
"The noise was incredible as he walked up the 18th with huge
crowds lining the fairway. The atmosphere was electric; what an
amazing sight.
“And what a great effort from our own Rory McIlroy, but
unfortunately it just wasn't to be. Scottie Scheffler has been
magnificent throughout the tournament and thoroughly deserves to
be the Champion Golfer.
"It has been another fantastic Open Championship - yet again
showing that Northern Ireland excels at putting on major sporting
events.
"The television coverage of this week's event has been seen in
more than 190 countries across the globe. And this worldwide
exposure showing our stunning north coast and Northern Ireland as
a must-visit golf tourism destination will attract more visitors
to our shores and bring significant benefits for our tourism and
hospitality sectors and wider economy."
The First Minister and deputy First Minister expressed their
thanks to Royal Portrush Golf Club, the R&A and the many
partner organisations, officials, marshals and volunteers
involved in making the Championship such a great success.
