World no.1 spot is a poisoned chalice, study finds

New research has revealed that the world number one spot has been a poisoned chalice for the world’s top golfers, with only Rory McIlroy securing a Major while holding that position over the last decade.

The world number one in golf has changed hands 41 times over the last 10 years, since Tiger Woods first relinquished the position in October 2010 after a record five-year stint (281 weeks). Golfers in the top spot have also only recorded 21 tournament wins outside of Majors while top of the rankings.

During this time, top spot has been held for an average of 19 weeks, with Americans dominating more than any other nation. Woods, Thomas, Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson and Jordan Spieth have all been number one at various points over the last decade.

Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy has been number one on eight occasions – more than any other British golfer during this time.

This makes betting on big golfing events more difficult – with some saying that online gaming is a more likely way to secure bigger wins.

Neville Burdock, head of trading at Sporting Index, said: “The world number one spot in golf isn’t what it used to be, and our research shows that it’s been somewhat of a poisoned chalice over the past 10 years with only Rory McIlroy winning a Major – the PGA Championship – while top of the world rankings.

“After Tiger Woods dominated the top position for over five years from June 2005 to October 2010, the top spot has changed hands 41 times. During this time, 12 players have won 21 tournaments while in that position and held the spot for an average of 19 weeks at a time.”