June 24--The famed Claret Jug won't be the only prize at stake when the British Open tees off next month.
The Royal Ancient Golf Club announced on Wednesday that the winner's take will jump to $1.8 million, an increase of $275,000 from last year.
"The Open is one of the world's pre-eminent sporting events," said Peter Dawson, chief executive of the R He called the increase "appropriate for an event with The Open's global appeal."
The tournament's overall purse will rise to $9.9 million, up from about $8.5 million in 2014.
Rory McIlroy will seek to defend his title when the 144th Open begins at St. Andrews on July 16.
