The Open Championship, one of golf's most prestigious major tournaments, is set to unfold its 154th edition at Royal Birkdale, a course steeped in history and known for testing the physical and mental limits of the world's best players. Over the years, Royal Birkdale has crowned ten legendary champions, including iconic figures such as Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, and Lee Trevino. This week, a new champion will join this elite list from a competitive field of 156 golfers, finalized after last-chance qualifiers like Joe Dean secured their spots.
The Open is renowned not only for showcasing the sport's top talent but also for offering dramatic narratives, including Cinderella stories from less heralded players. Past examples include Chris Wood in 2008 and Justin Rose a decade earlier, both of whom overcame the odds to make their mark on this challenging links course. With only four days of major championship golf remaining this season, anticipation is high as the golf world looks to Royal Birkdale for thrilling competition and potential surprises.
### The Field and Top Contenders
The 2026 Open features a star-studded lineup, headlined by some of the game's most consistent and formidable players. The following overview highlights the top 26 entrants, detailing their recent form, strengths, and potential to claim the Claret Jug at Royal Birkdale.
**1. Scottie Scheffler** The reigning champion from 2025, Scheffler dominated the field at Royal Portrush last year to claim the Claret Jug. Although his form this season hasn't quite matched that peak, he remains the world's number one player. Scheffler has consistently appeared near the top of the leaderboard in all three majors this year, though he has yet to close out a win. His ability to execute under pressure will be crucial on Birkdale's demanding layout, despite a recent missed cut.
**2. Rory McIlroy** A former Open champion (2014), McIlroy has shown promising form in early rounds recently, though weekend performances have been inconsistent. His recent outings, including the U.S. Open and Scottish Open, suggest he still has the game to contend. McIlroy's record at the Open is impressive, with one win and five top-10 finishes in his last ten appearances, showcasing his comfort at links-style venues.
**3. Matt Fitzpatrick** Fitzpatrick, who finished tied for fourth in 2025, is regarded as one of the most consistent players currently on tour. Despite a disappointing weekend at the Scottish Open, his iron play remains exceptional, and he is on the cusp of securing his second major title after a strong showing at the U.S. Open. His steady game and form make him a serious contender at Birkdale.
**4. Tommy Fleetwood** Fleetwood has quietly amassed five consecutive top-15 finishes since missing the cut at the PGA Championship. Known for his resilience and hometown advantage-he will be playing in Southport-Fleetwood boasts a solid Open record with five top-20 finishes in his last seven appearances. Improved short game skills add to his potential to make a deep run.
**5. Jon Rahm** Rahm, who tied for second in 2023, has struggled recently, barely making the cut at the Scottish Open and missing other events. Nevertheless, his talent and experience, especially on links courses, keep him among the favorites. His driving accuracy was a highlight in Scotland, signaling the kind of form that could translate well to Royal Birkdale.
**6. Chris Gotterup** Gotterup has been on an impressive roll this season with three wins. After a notable Sunday 62 at the John Deere Classic, he showed promise in defending his title at the Scottish Open. Known for his creativity and clutch putting, Gotterup has made the cut in all three majors this year and is hitting form at the perfect time.
**7. Wyndham Clark** Clark, a two-time U.S. Open champion, finished tied for fourth at last year's Open and inside the top 15 in his most recent start. Despite not receiving as much attention as some peers, his exceptional short game makes him a strong candidate if the tournament turns into a putting contest.
**8. Viktor Hovland** Hovland's driving has improved markedly in recent weeks, complementing his already elite iron play. His ability to thoughtfully select shots off the tee suits Royal Birkdale's demands. Recent criticism of his short game no longer applies, as his overall game appears balanced and ready for contention.
**9. Justin Rose** A veteran presence with top finishes including tied second in 2018 and 2024, Rose has been consistently competitive in majors this year. His steady play and experience on links courses make him a compelling story, especially as he returns to the venue where he first made a name for himself in 1998.
**10. Xander Schauffele** The 2024 Open champion maintains a strong record in majors, with a streak of top-20 finishes at this event and no missed cuts. Schauffele's consistency earns him a spot among the favorites, although he has yet to break into the top 10 since the PGA Championship.
**11. Collin Morikawa** Morikawa's precise, execution-heavy style meshes well with Royal Birkdale's firm and fast conditions. After a strong final round 61 at the Travelers Championship, he looks healthier and more confident, particularly with his putting.
**12. Robert MacIntyre** MacIntyre has found his form after a slow spring, posting three top-15 finishes in his last four events, including tied third at The Renaissance Club. His superb approach play and three top-10 finishes in six Open appearances signal readiness to contend.
**13. Sam Burns** Having welcomed a child recently, Burns's focus is clear as he secures his place in the field. The U.S. Open runner-up has elevated his game this season, suggesting he could achieve his first major success at The Open, especially on firm and fast courses like Augusta National and Shinnecock Hills.
**14. Cameron Young** Young had a strong start to the season, including a win at the Cadillac Championship, but has struggled on the greens recently. Despite recent setbacks, his talent and past performances keep him in the conversation.
**15. Ludvig Åberg** Åberg has eased off competition since the PGA Championship but has improved his putting with a new putter. Although recent finishes have been underwhelming, his ball-striking around Royal Birkdale could make him a dark horse.
**16. Tom Kim** Kim showed signs of resurgence with a strong start at Myrtle Beach and a near miss at the U.S. Open before winning the Scottish Open. His proven ability to elevate his game in Europe and his return to earlier winning form make him a threat.
**17. J.J. Spaun** Known for his accuracy and elite iron play, Spaun often flies under the radar in majors but has shown he can compete at The Open. His balanced game should suit the firmer, faster conditions expected this week.
**18. Patrick Reed** Reed's crafty style is well-suited to the challenging conditions at Royal Birkdale. After a solid showing at the Scottish Open, he gains valuable competitive reps ahead of the major and could leverage his experience to contend.
**19. Russell Henley** Henley excels in situations requiring a strong ground game, able to navigate links terrain effectively. While his chipping and pitching have been inconsistent lately, his skill set matches the demands of the course.
**20. Tyrrell Hatton** Hatton's recent putting has been exceptional, contributing to a win at Valderrama and strong finishes at the U.S. Open and Scottish Open. His proven links prowess and growing consistency in majors make him a player to watch.
**21. Si Woo Kim** Kim ranks among the top players in strokes gained across tee-to-green metrics, with remarkable driving accuracy. Though his Open results have been modest, his recent top-10 finish at North Berwick signals potential for a breakthrough.
**22. Justin Thomas** Thomas's record at The Open is surprisingly underwhelming, with no top-10 finishes in nine starts. His recent inconsistent iron play has hindered progress, but his talent always commands attention.
**23. Alex Fitzpatrick** In just his second Open start, Fitzpatrick has shown promise with made cuts in both majors this season. His putting woes at the Scottish Open were a setback, but improvement here could elevate his performance significantly.
**24. Shane Lowry** The 2019 Open champion is showing flashes of his best form with solid scoring but continues to struggle with putting consistency. Despite recent ups and downs, his experience and course knowledge make him a potential contender.
**25. Min Woo Lee** Lee's comfort on links courses, especially The Renaissance Club where he has a win and a runner-up finish, bodes well for Royal Birkdale. Improved putting has been key to his recent success and could be decisive this week.
**26. Patrick Cantlay** Cantlay's short game has been exceptional in past Opens, despite a recent poor showing at the Scottish Open. If his iron play holds up, he is poised to finish comfortably within the top 20.
### Looking Ahead
As Royal Birkdale prepares to host the 154th Open Championship, the blend of seasoned champions, rising stars, and consistent performers promises a captivating tournament. The links-style course will demand strategic shot-making, mental toughness, and adaptability to variable weather and course conditions. While favorites like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Matt Fitzpatrick headline the field, the door remains open for unexpected contenders and memorable moments.
With just four days of major golf remaining this season, anticipation builds not only for the crowning of a new champion but also for the storylines that only The Open can provide-where history, grit, and skill converge on one of golf's grandest stages. Fans and observers will watch closely as these 156 players, from the established elite to hopeful qualifiers, battle for glory at Royal Birkdale.