Brian Harman – Why Padraig Harrington Believes He Can’t Win The Open—But Still Finds Joy in the Moment

Brian Harman’s Contender Status Overshadowed by Harrington’s Emotional Open Championship Return

PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland — Padraig Harrington, one of golf’s most eloquent and introspective figures, has never been one to shy away from honesty. As the 2025 Open Championship returns to Royal Portrush, the Irishman finds himself in a unique position—honored, reflective, and, above all, realistic about his chances.

While rising stars like Brian Harman—the 2023 Champion Golfer of the Year—enter the tournament with confidence, Harrington’s perspective offers a poignant contrast. The three-time major winner, now 53 and competing primarily on the Champions Tour, acknowledges that his best days as a contender may be behind him. Yet, his presence at Royal Portrush is a celebration of Irish golf’s resurgence.

Harrington’s Candid Admission: “I Can Win an Open… But Maybe Not This One”

Harrington, known for his thoughtful and lengthy reflections, didn’t mince words when assessing his chances this week.

“I definitely feel like I can win an Open Championship,” he said. “Do I feel like I can win this Open Championship?”

A long pause followed.

“I would say it’s like a lot of times going into it. I wish it was a few more weeks,” he admitted. “But you know, I have to play with what I have tomorrow. I’ve got to create a reality in my head that I can win.”

His words lacked the bravado of a player like Brian Harman, who arrives at Portrush fresh off strong performances and with a proven ability to conquer links golf. Instead, Harrington’s tone was one of acceptance—a recognition that while he still possesses the skill to compete, the odds are stacked against him.

A Ceremonial Role? Harrington Disagrees—But Understands Reality

Harrington will have the honor of hitting the first tee shot on Thursday morning, a nod to his legendary status in Irish golf. Some might call it a ceremonial role, but Harrington resists that label—even if he acknowledges the truth behind it.

“I’ll put that aside to have the honor,” he said.

Golf is a game of razor-thin margins. With 156 players vying for the Claret Jug, only one will emerge victorious. For Harrington, the dream isn’t dead—but it’s tempered by realism. His recent win at the U.S. Senior Open proves he can still dominate his peers, but the Open Championship is a different beast.

Joy Over Competition: Harrington’s Love for Irish Golf Shines

What makes Harrington’s perspective so compelling isn’t just his honesty—it’s his unabashed joy for the game and his homeland.

“2019 was a phenomenal achievement for The Open to come here, then it was a phenomenal achievement for Shane [Lowry] to win it,” Harrington said. “For any of the Irish guys to come out here and win again would be astounding. Yes, I would like it to be me, but I’ll freely admit that I’ll settle for any Irish winner this week.”

His words reflect a man at peace with his legacy. While Brian Harman and other top contenders focus on strategy and scoring, Harrington is soaking in the atmosphere—the crowds, the history, and the sheer miracle of The Open’s return to Northern Ireland.

Brian Harman’s Quiet Confidence vs. Harrington’s Reflective Wisdom

While Harrington’s story is one of nostalgia and pride, Brian Harman enters the week as a legitimate threat. The 2023 Open champion has proven his ability to handle pressure on golf’s biggest stages. His precision and mental toughness make him a favorite, even in a stacked field.

But Harman’s journey is different from Harrington’s. The Irishman isn’t here to prove anything—he’s here to celebrate. And in doing so, he reminds fans why golf is about more than just trophies.

Final Thoughts: A Tournament of Contrasts

As Brian Harman prepares for another shot at glory, Harrington’s presence serves as a reminder of golf’s emotional depth. The Open Championship isn’t just about who lifts the Claret Jug—it’s about the stories, the history, and the moments that transcend competition.

For Harrington, this week is a victory in itself. And for fans, his joy is contagious—even if his name isn’t on the leaderboard come Sunday.