Justin Rose Narrowly Misses Victory at the Open, Reflects on Performance and Future Aspirations
In a gripping finale at the Open Championship, Justin Rose narrowly missed the chance to become the first Englishman since Sir Nick Faldo in 1992 to claim the coveted title. Rose had shown immense promise throughout the week, beginning the final round just one shot off the lead and making a strong start by reaching the turn in 33. Twice, he briefly held the lead, igniting hopes of a historic win.
However, as the back nine unfolded, American golfer Xander Schauffele surged ahead with a spectacular score of 31, compared to Rose’s 34. By the final hole, Schauffele’s lead was unassailable. Despite this, Rose managed a notable 15-foot birdie putt, finishing with a final round score of 67 and tying for second place with Billy Herschel at seven under par—just two strokes behind Schauffele.
Rose’s emotions were clearly mixed following the tournament’s conclusion. He candidly expressed the conflicting feelings he experienced. “I was gutted when I walked off the course and it hit me hard because I was so strong out there today,” Rose admitted. Balancing professionalism and personal achievement, he reflected, “I won second place, I won points, I won prizes, FedExCup points, all that stuff too. At that point, you’re being a professional.” Yet, the weight of coming so close to victory took its toll. “Then I walk 10 steps later and I’m choking back tears.”
Despite the disappointment, Rose remained proud of his performance and mindset. “The deal I made with myself today was to come off with no regrets,” he said. “But in terms of how I played and the execution of my emotions today, my mindset, I left it all out there. I’m super proud of how I competed.” He further highlighted, “Obviously, I’ll have a few more chances but you know that this was a great opportunity and you want to walk off the golf course going ‘Yeah, I didn’t squander that.’”
Rose’s second-place finish guarantees him automatic qualification for next year’s Open at Royal Portrush, a testament to his enduring competitive spirit. This comes after a year marked by inconsistent performances in major championships, with three top 10 finishes and four missed cuts in his last seven events. Notably, he secured a joint sixth place at the US PGA Championship in May, also won by Schauffele, underscoring his ability to compete at the highest levels.
Rose remains optimistic and confident in his capabilities on the course. Reflecting on past performances, he noted, “The PGA Championship at Valhalla on a golf course that probably shouldn’t suit me that well – a bomber’s paradise – I got myself right in the mix there until a couple of late bogeys but I was in the hunt right there as well, back nine Sunday.” His experiences this year in what he described as the strongest fields in golf have reinforced his belief. “Two major championships this year – strongest fields in golf. They’ve been my two best weeks.”
As he looks to the future, Rose’s focus is clear. “That’s what I’m gunning for. That’s what I’m working hard for, is to have these big-time moments in my career,” he said. His participation in the Ryder Cup in Rome a few months back also stands out in his career highlights. “I felt like Rome was one of them a few months back. I put that up there in terms of what it meant to me, in terms of what I’m looking for toward the end of my career.”
Justin Rose’s journey at the Open showcased his tenacity and skill, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting continuation of his golfing legacy. As he prepares for future challenges, his performance at Royal Troon remains a testament to his enduring prowess and unwavering commitment to the sport.
