Billy Horschel is at Royal Troon in Scotland for the 2024 Open, where he had a rough go in the rain during his previous appearance at this course in 2016. He missed the cut after an opening-round 67 followed by a disastrous 87 in the second round. Now, Horschel is back and playing well, making four birdies on the front nine of the third round to move into a share of the lead at six under for the tournament.
Reflecting on his past struggles in the rain at Royal Troon, Horschel believes he is a much better player now than he was in 2016. Despite facing challenging conditions, he is confident in his ability to handle them better this time around. Horschel even recalled turning his hat around in the rain during his previous round at Royal Troon, a move that received backlash on social media at the time.
Horschel’s decision to turn his hat around in the rain was a practical choice to keep water from running into his eyes. He noted that the move was criticized by fans on social media during his previous appearance but found justification in the fact that legendary golfer Tiger Woods had also done it on occasion. Drawing inspiration from Woods, Horschel felt confident in his decision to flip his hat despite potential criticism.
The debate over the name of the tournament continues, with official sources calling it the Open Championship while many U.S. fans refer to it as the British Open. This naming conflict has led publications like Golf Digest to use both terms in their coverage to cater to a wide audience. The tournament’s rich history and global appeal have contributed to the ongoing discussion surrounding its title.
As Horschel continues his strong play at the 2024 Open, he looks to build on his early success and contend for the title. His experience at Royal Troon in challenging conditions has prepared him for whatever weather may come his way during the tournament. With a renewed sense of confidence and determination, Horschel aims to make a mark on the leaderboard and secure a memorable performance at this prestigious event.
The atmosphere at Royal Troon during the Open Championship is electric, with fans and players alike soaking in the rich tradition and competition of the tournament. As the leaderboard shifts and players jockey for position, the excitement builds towards the final round and the crowning of a champion. With Horschel among the frontrunners, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to an unforgettable week of golf at one of the sport’s most iconic venues.
