The 2026 Open Championship kicks off July 16-19 at Royal Birkdale Golf Club, featuring defending champion Scottie Scheffler and a competitive lineup vying for golf’s oldest major.
Why it matters: This year's Open marks the return to Royal Birkdale, a historic venue with a rich championship history. It’s the last chance for golfers to secure a major title this season.
The Open Championship will be held at Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England, for the 11th time, having previously hosted the event in 1954, 1961, 1971, 1976, 1983, 1991, 1998, and 2017.
American golfers have dominated recent Opens, winning four of the last five championships, including Scheffler's victory in 2025 at Royal Portrush.
Scottie Scheffler, ranked No. 1 in the world, is looking to defend his title, aiming for back-to-back wins.
Rory McIlroy, who won the Masters in 2026, is among the top contenders and has not won the Open since 2014.
Driving the news: As the tournament approaches, anticipation builds around the star-studded field and the potential for surprises. The competition includes notable players like Aaron Rai and Wyndham Clark, both of whom have recently captured major titles.
Rai won the PGA Championship in 2026, and Clark took home the U.S. Open, making them formidable contenders.
Jordan Spieth, the last winner at Royal Birkdale in 2017, will also be competing, hoping to reclaim his form.
Local favorite Tommy Fleetwood, who grew up near the course, seeks his first major win after several near misses.
State of play: The field for this year's Open Championship comprises 156 players, including 15 past winners of the event.
Among the favorites, Scheffler holds odds of +750, followed closely by McIlroy at +850, according to BetMGM.
Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick are notable English contenders, with odds of +1800 and +2000, respectively.
Other key players include Jon Rahm and Xander Schauffele, both listed at +2200.
The big picture: Royal Birkdale’s reputation as a challenging course adds to the excitement of the tournament.
The course features low-lying fairways and towering dunes, creating a unique playing environment that tests golfers' skills.
Recent renovations have improved the course layout, enhancing its appeal for both players and spectators.
Historical champions at Birkdale include legends like Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, and Tom Watson, adding to its storied legacy.
What they're saying: Analysts and former players have shared their insights on potential outcomes for the tournament.
"Scheffler is a strong favorite, but McIlroy's recent form makes him a serious threat," said golf analyst Nick Hennion.
"Watch out for local hero Fleetwood; he knows the course well and could surprise everyone," Hennion added.
Betting experts suggest looking at sleeper picks like J.J. Spaun and Cameron Smith, who could outperform expectations.
By the numbers: Key statistics and odds for the 2026 Open Championship highlight the competitive nature of the event.
Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy are co-favorites, with odds set at +750 and +850, respectively.
Tommy Fleetwood's odds stand at +1800, making him a top choice among English players.
J.J. Spaun is listed as a sleeper pick with odds of +8000, indicating his potential for an upset.
What's next: The Open Championship will be broadcast across various platforms, ensuring fans can follow the action live.
Golf Channel will begin its coverage with "Live From The Open" starting July 13, leading into tournament rounds.
The first round begins Thursday, July 16, at 1:30 a.m. ET on Peacock, transitioning to USA Network at 4 a.m.
Final round coverage will be available on NBC and USA Network, providing comprehensive access to the tournament.
As the excitement builds for the 2026 Open Championship, fans eagerly await to see if Scottie Scheffler can successfully defend his title or if a new champion will emerge from a talented field.