Record entry for Open at St Andrews

Golf

A record 1,836 players have entered for the Open Championship at St Andrews from 20-23 July. The figure is nine more than the previous highest two years ago.

Only 96 players are exempted from qualifying, including 14 champions. Arnold Palmer, who will be playing in the Open for the last time, is also exempt. The rules were changed to allow the 65-year-old to return to the course on which he made his debut in 1960. Previously only champions under the age of 65 were given places.