The Open’s first play-off was supposed to have been in 1876 when Bob Martin (Scotland) was scheduled to play fellow Scot Davie Strath over 18 holes at St Andrews. However, Strath refused to play after it was said that he had infringed one of the rules by playing up to a green before the previous players had holed out on the 17th during the second round. After the issue was reported to the Council of the R&A, Strath withdrew from the play-off and the Championship was awarded to Martin.

The first play-off that actually took place at The Open was in 1883 and again involved two Scots, Willie Fernie and Bob Ferguson. Fernie won by one stroke after 36 extra holes.

The only man to win two play-offs is Harry Vardon (Jersey) in 1896 and 1911, while the only man to win and lose a play-off is Tom Watson (won 1975, lost 2009).