Scheffler Opens British Open Title Defence in Style as Brown and Im Share Early Lead

Posted : 16 July 2026

Scottie Scheffler launched his British Open title defence with an impressive opening stretch at Royal Birkdale, positioning himself just one stroke behind the early clubhouse leaders after completing the front nine. The world No. 1 carded a strong start in ideal weather conditions, contrasting sharply with the challenging Scottish Open, where his remarkable streak of 78 consecutive made cuts ended.

The American admitted that while the unexpected break before the year's final major allowed him to recharge, he was disappointed to miss the cut in Scotland. Scheffler, who claimed a commanding victory at Royal Portrush last year, has already demonstrated his ability to master links golf despite growing up on American courses.

Although he remains the world's top-ranked player, Scheffler has experienced a quieter season than usual. His only PGA Tour victory came in January, and he has yet to add another major championship to his collection. However, he looked back to his best early in the opening round, recording four birdies across five holes from the second to the sixth before dropping his first shot of the tournament at the seventh to move to three under par.

Bryson DeChambeau also made an encouraging start, sitting at three under with several holes remaining in his first round as he aimed to join the leaders.

England's Daniel Brown and South Korea's Im Sung-jae set the early pace after both posted rounds of four under par, establishing the clubhouse lead before the afternoon groups teed off.

Scotland's Robert MacIntyre also enjoyed a productive opening day, returning a three-under-par 67. The world No. 15 is still searching for his first major title but has built an impressive record at The Open, recording three top-10 finishes in six appearances. MacIntyre admitted that lifting the Claret Jug—or any major trophy—would fulfil every ambition he has had in professional golf.

Local favourite Tommy Fleetwood began his quest for a maiden major championship in front of home supporters in Southport. His opening round was steady rather than spectacular, with one birdie and one bogey through his first 10 holes leaving him level par.

Attention later shifted to Rory McIlroy, who was scheduled to begin his campaign in one of the day's headline groups. The 2014 Open champion teed off alongside defending 2024 champion Xander Schauffele and world No. 3 Matt Fitzpatrick as he chased a second Claret Jug.

Scheffler Opens British Open Title Defence in Style as Brown and Im Share Early Lead

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