As the world’s oldest major returns to the rugged Lancashire coast for the 11th time, Royal Birkdale stands ready to write another chapter in Open lore. Towering dunes, ever-shifting winds, and fairways that test precision over power will greet the field this week. Here are the five top storylines captivating fans, players, and pundits alike.
1. A Homecoming for History: Royal Birkdale’s Grand Return
Nine years after Jordan Spieth’s epic 2017 victory — complete with that unforgettable bogey from the practice range — Birkdale welcomes The Open back with fresh anticipation.
Redesigned in the 1930s as one of Britain’s first purpose-built championship links, the course blends dramatic dunes with surprisingly forgiving fairways. Its spectator-friendly layout and proven pedigree (hosting more big events than almost any other British venue post-WWII) make it a fan and player favorite.
Will the 2026 edition produce another iconic moment, or will the links humble the stars once more?
2. Scottie Scheffler’s Quest for Back-to-Back Glory
The world No. 1 and defending Open champion arrives as the favorite (barely). Scottie Scheffler’s ball-striking dominance and recent major pedigree position him perfectly for links golf, where control trumps raw power.
Can he become the first player since Padraig Harrington (2007–08) to win consecutive Opens despite recent form? Birkdale’s fair test could suit his methodical style, but history shows defending champions rarely repeat on these fickle links.
3. Rory McIlroy’s Pursuit of Even Greater Glory
Fresh off winning major No. 5 and No. 6 in the past two seasons, Rory McIlroy enters as a man on a mission for more. With six majors to his name and proven links pedigree (including his 2014 Claret Jug), he aims to etch his name deeper into history.
Already boasting two Masters titles and two PGA Championships, a victory at Birkdale would potentially set up a tilt at the double Grand Slam. The Northern Irishman’s experience and all-around game make him a massive threat on a course that rewards creativity and wind mastery.
4. Local Heroes: Rose, Fleetwood and Fitzpatrick Carry English Hopes
England’s Tommy Fleetwood, Justin Rose, and Matt Fitzpatrick, each ranked in the world top 10, ignite national pride as strong contenders on home soil.
Fleetwood, a links specialist with deep local roots, has thrived in recent Opens and carries massive crowd support. Fitzpatrick, the 2022 U.S. Open winner, brings proven major mettle and tip-top form, while the gold medal-winning Rose, 45, has become something of a specialist in the majors in recent years.
With English players hungry for a home victory (the last was in 1996), the trio could ride the galleries’ energy through Birkdale’s dunes. A British winner at an English Open would spark unforgettable celebrations.
5. Jon Rahm’s Grand Slam Chase Amid LIV Golf Scrutiny
Jon Rahm, already a Masters and U.S. Open champion, arrives hunting the third leg of the career Grand Slam at Royal Birkdale. A win here would leave him needing only the PGA for immortality alongside golf’s greatest.
Yet the narrative carries extra weight: as a high-profile LIV Golf star, Rahm faces intense media pressure with many openly rooting against a LIV success in a major, framing any potential victory as a flashpoint in the ongoing tours divide. Can Rahm block out the noise, harness his powerful game on the links, and join the elite few who have conquered three-quarters of the Slam? The spotlight — and the stakes — could not be higher.
