Ian Woosnam, the former Masters champion and two-time Open Championship third-place finisher, has launched a scathing critique of Tyrrell Hatton's on-course behaviour, stating he would find it difficult to keep his mouth shut if paired with the Ryder Cup star. Speaking ahead of the 154th Open at Royal Birkdale, Woosnam expressed his disapproval of the conduct displayed by some modern players.
Woosnam's Criticism of Hatton's Conduct
Woosnam, 67, told The Telegraph: "I don't like some of the on-course behaviour I see from some of the players, who should realise how privileged they are and not have childish hissy fits. I threw clubs when I was young, but realised that it's not respectful to your partners, the fans or the game, itself." He added, "I'm not sure if I could keep my mouth shut if I played with Tyrrell Hatton. It was the same with one of the big names in my time – who I won't name. I refused to sign his scorecard after one round because of his behaviour."
Hatton's History of Outbursts
Hatton, 34, has a history of attracting attention for his temper. At the 2025 USPGA, he was caught on camera in a foul-mouthed outburst, and at the 2024 World Tour Championship, he snapped a club in frustration. Despite this, Hatton has previously stated he tries to temper his behaviour to avoid affecting playing partners. At the 2025 Open, he said: "I've always said, as long as it's not affecting my playing partners... Sure, there's been times I've probably gone too far and you comment on a putt when they're putting on the same line and then it maybe affects where they're hitting their putt. Stuff like that, I think that's part of what you learn as you get more experience, so I do try and avoid that kind of thing. But yeah, as long as I'm not affecting the other guys, then I'm not going to change."
Hatton's Open Championship Record
Hatton's best Open finish remains fifth place in 2016. At the 2025 Open, he was tied for fifth at the halfway point on five under par but shot a final round 72 to finish tied for 16th. His best major result came at the 2026 Masters, where he finished joint-third, two strokes behind winner Rory McIlroy.
Woosnam's Open Legacy
Woosnam finished third at The Open twice, with his most recent third-place finish coming in 2001 at Royal Lytham & St Annes, where he tied for third behind winner David Duval and runner-up Niclas Fasth. His first third-place finish was in 1989 at Royal Troon. The 154th Open Championship takes place at Royal Birkdale from 16-19 July.
