THE exhilarating conclusion of the:- 154th Open Championship wrapped up at the:- Royal Birkdale Golf Club on:- Sunday, 19 July 2026. While the afternoon offered a warm summer climate for the spectators, a punishing and erratic coastal breeze battered the links, making it incredibly difficult for the field to maintain control on the final stretch.
Drama escalated across the back 9 as tournament frontrunners failed to sustain their momentum under pressure. Despite receiving massive encouragement from the local galleries, along with several heavily backed contenders, all fell short of the ultimate prize, yet they still put on an elite display of sportsmanship and top tier golf.
Local hero Tommy Fleetwood gave the home crowd plenty to cheer about with a brilliant early charge. He finished his campaign with immense flair on the 72nd green, and while he did not capture enough birdies to climb to the very top, he delivered a stellar effort that kept the Southport fans smiling all afternoon.
In a public statement Tommy Fleetwood told his Social Media followers:- Where do I possibly begin? 1st of all congratulations to Ryan Fox. An incredible way to finish and so happy for you, Anneke and the family and team. This week has given me and my family moments and memories that will last forever. I'm forever grateful for the support everyone has given me and the love that you all showed and I’m so proud of my hometown for The Open that you delivered! What an honour and a privilege to have played in that atmosphere in front of you all, thank you! I hope we get to do it again!"
American star Sam Burns held the overnight advantage and started the day as the clear bookmakers' choice. He initially looked calm and collected, but struggled immensely to preserve his rhythm against the unpredictable wind, leaking critical shots on the inward half to fade from the leading group.
The battle for the Claret Jug boiled down to a high stakes duel between:- Cameron Young and Ryan Fox. Walking up to the final hole locked in a tight battle, it was the New Zealander who kept his nerve. Delivering a phenomenal birdie on the 18th right when it mattered most, Fox captured his 1st Major championship by a single stroke in a truly sensational finish.
| Position |
Player |
R1 |
R2 |
R3 |
R4 |
Total Strokes |
Final Score |
| 1 |
Ryan Fox (NZL) |
72 |
68 |
62 |
68 |
270 |
-10 |
| 2 |
Cameron Young (USA) |
67 |
67 |
73 |
64 |
271 |
-9 |
| 3 |
Sam Burns (USA) |
73 |
62 |
65 |
72 |
272 |
-8 |
| T4 |
Tommy Fleetwood (ENG) |
69 |
67 |
69 |
68 |
273 |
-7 |
| T4 |
Scottie Scheffler (USA) |
68 |
68 |
70 |
67 |
273 |
-7 |
Don't miss the Women's Open...
Golf enthusiasts looking to catch more world class links action can now book admission for the upcoming landmark 50th staging of the AIG Women's Open, held at:- Royal Lytham & St Annes. General admission tickets are officially on sale, with adult day passes starting from:- £25. In an effort to make the game accessible to families, the organisers are offering half price tickets for youths, while younger children gain completely free entry when accompanied by an adult.
