Top 100 Clubhouse - Golf Podcast · Top 100 Golf Courses

Episode 82: Reflection On The Open, and Discussing The Top 100 Panel

July 21, 2025·27 min·1 clip

Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, Sam Snead, Lee Trevino—some of golf's all-time legends never achieved the career grand slam.

Hosts James Henderson and Jasper Miners reflect on Scottie Scheffler's victory at The Open Championship held at Royal Portrush. They analyze how the Northern Irish course performed as a televised major venue and its appeal to amateur golfers. The conversation shifts to the elite players who are one major away from completing the career Grand Slam. Portrush made golf look accessible because professionals scored well and the weather was favorable, with Rickie Fowler shooting a 65. The hosts note that average golfers would lose balls in the rough without the spotters and galleries present during the tournament. They highlight Lee Westwood's remarkable 29 on the back nine after a 40 on the front as an example of Portrush's scoring opportunities. The logistical success of the event, including record crowds, is credited to Northern Ireland's lack of large-scale professional sports teams. Royal Portrush's unusual, low-ceilinged locker room, reportedly challenging for anyone over six feet tall, receives a humorous mention. Scottie Scheffler's dominant, consistent play is contrasted with the more dramatic styles of past champions like Tiger Woods. Scheffler now needs only the U.S. Open to complete the career Grand Slam, joining active players Phil Mickelson and Jordan Spieth who are also one major short. The hosts list golf legends like Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, and Sam Snead who also never completed the Grand Slam, noting it is harder than it seems. They debate whether Scheffler's introspective, businesslike demeanor makes him more or less likely to achieve the feat. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to addressing listener inquiries about the anonymous panelists for their Top 100 golf course rankings. The hosts explain that panelists are not disclosed because they pay their own way and often require anonymity to access exclusive private clubs. They argue that the rankings should stand on their own merits rather than the reputations of the panelists. The tone is conversational and insider-focused, blending post-tournament analysis with industry shop talk about golf course ratings. Listeners who enjoy detailed discussions about major championship venues and the business of golf course rankings will appreciate this episode. Those seeking high-drama narratives or instruction-based content might find it less engaging.

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Top 100 Clubhouse - Golf Podcast