As we move into 2026, English golf finds itself in a strong position on the world stage. Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton, Justin Rose and Matt Fitzpatrick have all come through the 2024–25 season in excellent form, keeping England firmly in the global golf conversation as attention turns toward the next Open Championship at Royal Birkdale.
That momentum matters well beyond professional golf. High-profile English success drives international interest in the country as a golf-travel destination — and few regions stand to benefit more than the North West.
Players Driving Global Attention
Fleetwood’s breakthrough victory in the United States has raised his profile significantly in the US market, the most important source of inbound golf visitors to Britain. Hatton remains one of Europe’s most recognisable and competitive players, Rose continues to command respect worldwide, and Fitzpatrick’s DP World Tour Championship victory underlines England’s depth at the highest level.
Together, they project an image of English golf that is modern, competitive and globally relevant.
Why the North West Benefits
Fleetwood’s North West roots give this story particular weight. As Royal Birkdale approaches, his success is naturally focusing attention back on the Lancashire and Merseyside coast — one of the strongest links golf regions in the world.
International golfers are increasingly motivated by narrative as well as reputation. They want to play the courses and visit the places that produced the players they watch on television. Royal Birkdale provides a globally recognised anchor for that story.
For the region — and for English golf tourism more broadly — this is a moment where sporting success and destination appeal are working together to drive real international interest.
