Celebrating 40 years of the junior major
For four decades this contest has provided a stage for the best young golfers in the UK and Ireland to showcase their talents, and I am honoured to continue my association with it as the title sponsor.
This championship holds a special place in my heart, of course. I was fortunate enough to win the boys' title in 1997, a moment that played a pivotal role in shaping my career. The experience of competing in such a high-profile junior event, feeling the pressure of performing on a grand stage, and knowing that previous winners had gone on to achieve great things, was inspiring. It gave me a taste of what professional golf might feel like and fuelled my determination to pursue my dreams.
Over the years, this championship has unearthed some of the brightest talents in golf. Major champion Matt Fitzpatrick won it in 2012 while Tommy Fleetwood finished a close second in 2008. Meanwhile, Mimi Rhodes, the 2019 girls' champion, is making amazing progress in the women's game now and looks destined for great things.
What sets this competition apart is not just the prestige but also the incredible journey it offers young golfers. From the moment they tee off in the qualifiers to the grand final at Quinta do Lago, they experience an environment that mirrors the highest levels of the sport.
Last year's tournament was as spectacular a showcase of junior golf as ever. Charlie Rusbridge and Grace Crawford eventually emerged victorious after an incredible few days of competition in Portugal, at which I was fortunate enough to be present. The course at Quinta, with its challenging layout and pristine conditions, tested every aspect of the competitors' games, ensuring that the very best rose to the top again. It was fantastic to see the camaraderie among the players, the sportsmanship on display, and the way they embraced the challenge of playing under pressure.
With 2025 the 40th edition of the championship, this year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever. The qualifying process remains as competitive as always, with boys and girls from across the UK and Ireland battling it out. The best will earn their spots in the final at Quinta do Lago, where they will compete for one of the most coveted titles in junior golf.
Quinta do Lago, our long-standing host venue, will once again provide the perfect backdrop for the final. With its world-class facilities and stunning Algarve setting, it offers young golfers a taste of professional-level competition, preparing them for the future as few other junior events can. Supporting this championship is about more than just recognising talent – it's about inspiring the next generation. I know first hand how much events like this mean to young golfers, and I want to ensure that they continue to have the same opportunities that I had. Golf is a sport that teaches discipline, resilience and integrity, and I strongly believe the Justin Rose Telegraph Junior Golf Championship embodies all of these values.
As we celebrate this milestone year, I encourage every young golfer with aspirations of greatness to seize this opportunity.
The road to Quinta do Lago 2025 starts now, and I cannot wait to see who will rise to the occasion and write their own chapter in this tournament's illustrious history. Good luck to all those who are entering.
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