The R&A removed Muirfield from the British Open rotation on Thursday after the course again voted not to allow women to play the course.
With a new spot open, a number of courses will be hoping to earn their way onto one of golf's grandest stages. Muirfield will likely be considered again if its policy changes, but for now, hope springs for courses across the United Kingdom.
MORE: Tour winners of 2015-16 season | McIlroy, Willett set up for Irish Open battle
Here are three destinations that could be in the running:
Ballybunion Golf Club, Ireland — This Irish links course nestled between the coast and farmland offers a strange array of hills, slopes and valleys that would challenge golfers.