SOUTHPORT, England – The British Open began under clear skies on Thursday at Royal Birkdale in Southport, where American Scottie Scheffler is bidding to become the event’s first back-to-back winner since 2008.
The opening shot of the 154th edition was struck by England’s Matthew Baldwin, who is also a member at Royal Birkdale. He was joined by Belgian Thomas Detry and American James Nicholas in game one.
World number one Scheffler, who finished on 17 under at Royal Portrush last year, is hoping to become the first man since Padraig Harrington to win back-to-back Opens. Harrington won his second title at Royal Birkdale.
Scheffler is scheduled to tee off at 9:58 a.m (0858 GMT) alongside Bryson DeChambeau and Tyrrell Hatton.
World number two Rory McIlroy will begin his campaign alongside 2024 champion Xander Schauffele and Matt Fitzpatrick at 3:15 p.m. (1415 GMT).
McIlroy is chasing a seventh major title. His sole Open win came 12 years ago at Royal Liverpool.
