First, is there some reason why they have to use UK courses.... , that's a joke folks.
Now for the serious stuff. I realise (Brits use "s" instead of "z" in many words) "The Open Championship" is the oldest major, but I'll also say that when I was a kid and Arnie was emerging and was one of the few players to venture across the pond to play in what was then called "The British Open" it was not that big a deal. I'm glad it's become a big deal, but "Champion Golfer of the Year." Maybe "Champion Golfer of the Year" might go to the player who does the best in all 4 majors?
I don't know, just seems like The Open Championship, rather recently, trumps all other tournaments.