Muirfield to host AIG Women’s Open in 2022

appetite of every great golf lover.”

The result of a first postal ballot to admit women members at Muirfield, home of the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, in May 2016 fell 14 votes short of what was required, sparking outrage from then Prime Minister David Cameron and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

That also led to Muirfield being removed from the R&A’S rota for The Open, with Slumbers saying it would not be considered for events until the membership policy changed.

It was second-time lucky in March 2017 as 498 (80.2 per cent) members voted in favour of admitting women members, with 123 votes (19.8 per cent) against.

“I think the world has changed quite a lot in the last five years. The game of golf has changed quite a lot in the last five years,” said Slumbers. “I think there is a lot more discussion and energy andcommitmentaboutmaking the game more modern and relevant to today’s society, and we couldn’t have a more enthusiastic partner in the Honourable Company in wanting to change this championship.

“I think it will be a fantastic place for the women golfers to go and play. I’m pretty excited already and I think Muirfield will really embrace it and give us a fantastic championship.”

Last held there in 2013, when Phil Mickelson claimed the Claret Jug, Muirfield is still waiting to find out when The Open will be returning.however,thenews about the first AIG Women’s Open heading there was welcomed by club captain Alistair Campbell. He said: “The Honourable Company relishes the prospect of hosting the AIG Women’s Open in 2022. I know our members and many others will be enthusiastic in welcoming the world’s best women golfers as they tackle our famous championship links.”

Carnoustie last staged the AIG Women’s Open in 2011, when Yani Tseng won, while St Andrews will be hosting the event for the third time after Lorena Ochoa and Stacy Lewis won in 2007 and 2013.