A score below 80 on the Old Course at St Andrews, achieved one year before his 1859 death, marked Allan Robertson as a transformative figure in the early professional era of golf. Throughout his career, he operated as a skilled club maker and a player who reportedly remained undefeated as an individual in money matches.
Professional Rise and Competition
Born in 1815 in St Andrews, Robertson rose to prominence when professional golf was defined by caddying, instruction, and playing for high-stakes wagers backed by wealthy spectators. Following his victory over Willie Dunn, Sr., in 1843—a contest spanning 20 rounds over 10 days—he was widely considered the top golfer in Scotland. He frequently managed his performance during matches to balance the odds against opponents, maintaining an undefeated reputation as an individual competitor.
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Robertson managed a family business producing featherie balls, an enterprise handed down through three generations. He employed Old Tom Morris as an apprentice starting in 1839. The pair maintained a dominant playing partnership for years. Their professional relationship ended following a disagreement regarding the introduction of the guttie ball, which was made from liquid rubber found in Malaysia. While Robertson initially sought to suppress the popularity of the cheaper, modern ball, his own firm eventually shifted production to meet changing market demands.
Course Design and Legacy
His influence extended to the physical layout of the Old Course at St Andrews, where he enlarged greens to accommodate an increasing number of players, establishing double greens that became a distinctive feature of his design work. He collaborated with Morris in 1842 to lay out ten new holes at Carnoustie. Following his death from jaundice in 1859, his status prompted the creation of The Open Championship in 1860, as golfers sought to determine his successor as the champion player.
Fast facts
- Born: 11 September 1815, St Andrews
- Died: 1 September 1859
- Burial site: St Andrews Cathedral
- Primary sport: Golf
- Key design work: Carnoustie (1842)
- Professional status: World Golf Hall of Fame member
Questions readers ask
Why is Allan Robertson linked to the creation of The Open Championship?
Because he was widely recognized as the premier golfer of his era, the competition was established in 1860 at Prestwick Golf Club to determine a successor to his title.
Where is Allan Robertson buried?
He is buried in the churchyard of St Andrews Cathedral, marked by a sandstone obelisk featuring his sculpted portrait.
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