Louis Oosthuizen has withdrawn from the 154th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale due to a back injury, ending a 16-year run of consecutive appearances in the championship.
The 2010 Open winner, 43, pulled out ahead of this week’s tournament at the English links course. Oosthuizen’s absence marks only the second time since 2008 he has sat out the Open—a missed appearance in 2013 is the sole other blemish on his record.
His withdrawal also sidelines the South African from next week’s LIV Golf UK event, highlighting the severity of the injury and its impact on his competitive schedule. Back trouble has plagued Oosthuizen for years, forcing him to withdraw mid-round or scratch before events on multiple occasions throughout his career.
South African Aldrich Potgieter, who finished third at Monday’s final qualifier just hours before Oosthuizen’s withdrawal was announced, inherits the champion’s place in the field as first alternate. Potgieter’s unexpected promotion comes after a strong showing that just missed direct qualification for Royal Birkdale.
Oosthuizen, who claimed his sole major at St. Andrews in 2010 by defeating Lee Westwood by seven strokes at 16-under 272, has long been considered a threat at links courses. His 16-year streak of Open appearances represents one of professional golf’s most consistent records in the championship.
The withdrawal removes one of golf’s most likeable personalities from championship contention this week, denying fans and supporters the chance to see the graceful South African compete in the final men’s major of 2026.
