#287 153rd Open Championship: Daily Report, July 16–17, 2025

Royal Portrush has roared back to life as the 153rd Open Championship commenced with palpable energy across its dunes and galleries. Over July 16 and 17, the stage was set and the first round played under brisk coastal skies, revealing early signs of form, focus, and fragility.

The Calm Before the StormWednesday saw final preparations: swing tweaks, press conferences, and thousands of fans flooding the Dunluce Links. Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry received the loudest ovations, while players fine-tuned strategies for the 7,381-yard, par-71 course—now lengthened and subtly adjusted by architect Martin Ebert. With expanded back tees and firmer, faster greens, the setup promised a true links test.

Forecasted winds of 10–15 mph loomed large. Players specifically targeted the exposed par-3 16th (“Calamity Corner”) and par-4 5th (“White Rocks”) during practice, knowing these holes could swing a round. As expected, Thursday’s Round 1 began with firm fairways, slick greens, and gusts off the North Atlantic, demanding precision and adaptability.

Opening Round HighlightsPadraig Harrington struck the first ball at 6:35 AM BST, joined by Irish amateur Tom McKibbin and Nicolai Højgaard. The veteran showed his class early, while McKibbin impressed with poise beyond his years.

Rory McIlroy, in the marquee 3:10 PM group alongside Justin Thomas and Tommy Fleetwood, opened steadily. Unlike 2019’s devastating start, McIlroy kept his first tee shot in play and leaned on a flatter, wind-resistant ball flight refined during practice. The home crowd roared approval.

Shane Lowry, part of the 10:10 AM featured group with Collin Morikawa and Scottie Scheffler, relied on trademark scrambling—his deft short game saving par on the treacherous 7th, then converting a birdie on the 8th.

Defending champion Xander Schauffele teed off at 9:58 AM with Jon Rahm and JJ Spaun. His disciplined play off the tee and on approach confirmed why he’s again among the favorites.

Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau, grouped with Justin Rose and Robert MacIntyre at 2:59 PM, drew attention for his aggressive lines, including a near drive on the par-4 5th, showcasing the hole’s risk-reward nature.

Strategic Takeaways• The 16th and 5th holes validated pre-tournament buzz: gusty winds made both brutally demanding.
• The 11th and 14th, known for difficulty in 2019, again played over par.
• Longer hitters gained strokes on the drivable 5th, while others laid up safely.
• Early stats showed that creative shot-shaping, trajectory control, and course management were vital to scoring.

Featured Groups & Storylines

• Rory McIlroy: Returning as a Masters champion, McIlroy’s calm demeanor hinted at redemption.

• Shane Lowry: The 2019 champion was welcomed like royalty and opened with solid, smart golf.

• Scottie Scheffler: World No. 1, playing with Lowry and Morikawa, sought to translate his PGA form to links terrain.

• Xander Schauffele: Focused and accurate, he’s begun a strong title defense.

• Tom McKibbin: The Portrush local debuted with composure and crowd support.

Looking AheadWith Round 1 in the books, attention turns to Friday’s cut line and shifting weather. Rain may factor in, and gusts are forecast to increase by the afternoon. Expect leaderboard movement as conditions evolve.

Broadcast Schedule

• UK: Sky Sports Golf (7:00–21:30 BST)

• US: Peacock (Early), NBC (Main Coverage)

• Radio: BBC Radio 5 Live, SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio