The Amateur Champion’s Journey | Craig Watson on Winning The Amateur, Playing The Masters & The Open

Guest: Craig Watson

In this episode of Linked By Golf, Ross chats with Craig Watson — one of Scotland’s most accomplished amateur golfers — about a career that spans winning The Amateur Championship, playing in The Masters and The Open, and representing and captaining Great Britain & Ireland in the Walker Cup.

Craig reflects on his victory at The Amateur Championship in 1997, a win that opened doors to Augusta National and Royal Birkdale. He shares what it was like walking the fairways at The Masters Tournament and competing in The Open Championship — experiences few amateurs ever get to live.

The conversation also dives deep into his long association with the Walker Cup — first as a player representing Great Britain & Ireland, and later as captain. Craig explains the unique pressure and pride that comes with amateur team golf, the responsibility of leadership, and what it takes to prepare players for elite international competition.

From growing up in Scottish golf to competing on the biggest stages in the world, Craig offers insight into longevity in the amateur game, balancing elite sport with life beyond competition, and what the modern amateur landscape looks like compared to his era.

Topics covered in this episode:
• Winning The Amateur Championship in 1997
• Earning a place at The Masters and The Open
• The Augusta National experience as an amateur
• Competing at Royal Birkdale
• Representing Great Britain & Ireland in the Walker Cup
• Captaining the Walker Cup side
• The evolution of elite amateur golf
• The pride of Scottish golf tradition
• Leadership, preparation, and team culture
• Life beyond tournament golf

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