Caddie Janar Toomesso and Richard Teder
Photo: Eesti Golfi Liit

On July 1st, Richard Teder became the first Estonian to qualify for a major golf tournament. After a day of fierce competition, Teder hit a decisive 73-meter shot to book his spot at the 2025 British Open.

“It doesn’t feel real – qualifying for The Open is like a dream. I knew how important the putt on the 18th was to get into the play-off. And as they say – it’s not over till it’s over,” Teder said to the R&A radio.

“I’m glad I made it in. I couldn’t believe the shot went in in the play-off – it just disappeared [into the hole]. It’s an unbelievable feeling. Everybody’s dream is to play in a major tournament. I never thought I’d get the chance to play in a major tournament, but here I am!”

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to both Richard and his caddie, Janar Toomesso. We are keeping our fingers crossed for the major tournament set to take place in mid-July at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland.”

Upon their arrival in Estonia on July 2, Richard and Janar were welcomed at the airport by EGCC Captain Jaen Uussalu and the Secretary General of the Estonian Golf Association, Kristo Raudam.

Highlights from media coverage

The tee shot that seemingly vanished into thin air on the eighteenth hole, and the dramatic qualification for The Open by the 20-year-old Estonian captured considerable media attention.