Darren Clarke created one of those unforgettable moments at The Open Championship 2025. On the iconic 17th hole at Royal Portrush, the Northern Irishman holed out directly from the rough — chip-in, birdie, and a roar from the grandstands. Clarke had found trouble off the tee, ending up in the native area and then the rough, still about 26 yards from the pin. But then, magic: the ball dropped straight into the hole — a clean three on the scorecard.
The 56-year-old from County Tyrone received what’s rarely heard in Portrush: a true home-course advantage. The Open Championship 2025 brought Clarke back to familiar territory, and just like in 2019, when the Open returned to his home region, he delivered another moment to remember.
Darren Clarke: A “Moment of Magic” at the The Open Championship 2025
Keeping the home crowds happy. Darren Clarke with a moment of magic. pic.twitter.com/Jkzp60CXFt
— The Open (@TheOpen) July 17, 2025