LONDON — English golfer Nathan Kimsey admitted he "was in disbelief" after securing his place in the 2024 Open Championship at Royal Troon, marking a career-defining moment for the 30-year-old.
Kimsey, ranked 287th in the world, earned his spot through Final Qualifying at West Lancashire Golf Club, where he shot a stunning 36-hole total of 11-under-par (65-68) to finish joint-second. "It still hasn’t sunk in," he told reporters after the round.
A Long-Awaited Breakthrough
For Kimsey, this achievement represents the culmination of years of perseverance. The former Challenge Tour player turned professional in 2014 but has yet to secure a full-time DP World Tour card. His best finish this season was a T-12 at the Magical Kenya Open, but his performance in Final Qualifying proved he can compete at the highest level.
Kimsey described the moment he realized he had qualified: "I saw my name on the leaderboard, and my hands were shaking. I’ve dreamed of playing in The Open since I was a kid—it’s surreal."
The Road to Royal Troon
Final Qualifying is notoriously grueling, with only a handful of spots available from a field of 288 players. Kimsey’s flawless opening round of 65 set the tone, and despite a nervy finish with two bogeys in his last three holes, he held on.
Key moments from his qualifying campaign included:
- A 40-foot birdie putt on the 14th in Round 1
- A clutch par save from a greenside bunker on the 17th in Round 2
- A steadying 10-foot putt for bogey on the 18th to secure his spot
Family Support and Sacrifices
Kimsey credited his family for their unwavering support, particularly his father, who caddied for him during qualifying. "He’s been there through every high and low. This one’s for him," he said emotionally.
The golfer also reflected on the sacrifices he’s made, including relocating to Dubai to train year-round. "It’s been tough financially, but moments like this make it all worth it."
Looking Ahead to The Open
Kimsey will now prepare for his major debut at Royal Troon, where he’ll face the world’s best, including defending champion Brian Harman and Rory McIlroy. "I’m not just going there to make up the numbers," he insisted.
His game plan?
- Lean on his strong iron play, which was key in qualifying
- Spend time practicing links golf to adjust to the conditions
- Stay mentally composed under major championship pressure
Reactions from the Golf World
Fellow pros were quick to congratulate Kimsey. DP World Tour player Richard Mansell tweeted: "So happy for Nathan! One of the hardest workers out there—fully deserved."
Former Open champion Darren Clarke also praised Kimsey’s resilience: "Qualifying for The Open is life-changing. Nathan’s journey shows what determination can achieve."
A Dream Realized
As Kimsey prepares for the biggest week of his career, he remains grounded. "I’ll soak it all in, but I’m there to compete. This is just the beginning."
The 2024 Open Championship begins on July 18, and for Nathan Kimsey, it’s a chance to prove that underdogs belong on golf’s grandest stage.
