Padraig Harrington hoping Portmarnock hosts Open before his exemption ends in 2032

“It would justify the fact that we call it ‘The Open’. It would solidify that the R&A is in charge of golf all over the world and it would open up the possibility for The Open in time going to Australia or places like that, maybe not the time of the year, but why not?”

THE OPEN IN IRELAND: Padraig Harrington tees off the 16th during a practice round ahead of The Open at Royal Troon. Photo credit: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire.

Padraig Harrington is holding out hope that The Open can be held at Portmarnock before his exemption to continue playing the tournament as a former champion expires at the age of 60 in eight year’s time.

“It would be very nice if it was my last year in 2032, if the Open came to Portmarnock in my last year,” the two-time champion said from the driving range at Royal Troon on Wednesday. “Hopefully something can happen on that.”