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Iconic Royal Birkdale images: Peter Thomson's Open win in 1965

9 JUL 1965:  PETER THOMSON OF AUSTRALIA RECEIVES THE BRITISH OPEN GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY AFTER WINNING THE TITLE FOR THE FIFTH TIME AT BIRKDALE, SOUTHPOR
Image: Peter Thomson lifted the Claret Jug in 1965

We continue our countdown to The Open by taking a look back at another iconic image from the Royal Birkdale archives - Peter Thomson lifting the Claret Jug for the fifth time in 1965.

The Australian had already won the Championship in 1954, 1955, 1956 and 1958, but defied the odds to return again seven years later to claim it again.

A poor opening round of one-over-par appeared to put Thomson out of contention as he trailed by six strokes, but he bounced back in the second by going five under before hitting a 72 in the third to take the outright lead.

5 JUL 1965:  PETER THOMSON OF AUSTRALIA IN ACTION PRACTISING ON THE COURSE AT BIRKDALE FOR THE START OF THE BRITISH OPEN GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP. Mandatory Credi
Image: Thomson finished the week on seven under

There would be no let up from Thomson in the final round either, as he went two under to win by two strokes and lift golf's oldest major prize.

Only one man has won The Open more times than Thomson in history, with Harry Vardon claiming six titles during his career.

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