The Open Championship 2025 brings together the world’s top golfers at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland for the season’s final major tournament. This represents a last opportunity to secure one of golf’s most prestigious trophies. For several players, it’s a chance to enhance their collection of majors, while others aim for their inaugural victory.
The last time Royal Portrush hosted The Open was in 2019, marking a breakthrough moment for Shane Lowry, who won the Claret Jug and became a beloved champion. This year, many players aspire to have their own memorable experience.
The talent pool in professional golf is currently at an all-time high, creating substantial challenges for players with the potential to achieve major success. Competitors like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau, and Jon Rahm have set a high standard, meaning that overcoming such formidable opponents needs exceptional performance.
Let’s explore nine players who warrant attention at The Open this week. This list features some favorites who could rise in historical rankings, several contenders aiming for their first major, and a few players hoping to reclaim their prowess.
1. Rory McIlroy (7-1): This may be McIlroy’s best chance to win The Open in his home country. Though Royal Portrush will host again in the future, McIlroy will be 42 years old for the next opportunity. He considers winning The Open at Portrush as his next significant goal after achieving a career grand slam and recently showcased exceptional form with a runner-up finish at the Scottish Open.
2. Jon Rahm (12-1): Rahm has been close to victory at The Open recently, finishing in the top 10 in three of his last four appearances, including a T11 in 2019 at Royal Portrush. Following a challenging 2024, he regained momentum at The Open last year and looks to build on it in 2025, eyeing his third major title.
3. Tommy Fleetwood (28-1): Fleetwood finished second to Lowry in 2019 and could create a fitting narrative if he captures his first major this week. He has three top 10 finishes at The Open and is often cited among the best players without a major victory. His career has been filled with near misses, making a win highly anticipated by fans.
4. Xander Schauffele (25-1): Last year, Schauffele was considered among the elite players following two major wins, including The Open. An early injury hindered his performance this year, but he showed signs of resurgence at the Scottish Open. An impressive return to form would enhance the competition among top players, making his defense of the Claret Jug exciting.
5. Jordan Spieth (55-1): Fans have eagerly awaited Spieth’s return to contention in majors. He has consistently performed well at The Open since 2016, securing four top 10 finishes, including a victory in 2017. With his creativity in links golf, Spieth could once again captivate audiences.
6. Robert MacIntyre (35-1): In 2019, MacIntyre secured a T6 finish at Royal Portrush during his major debut. He’s made a notable return to the leaderboard recently, finishing as a runner-up at the U.S. Open. Alongside McIlroy and Fleetwood, he could be a fan-favorite winner this week.
7. Ludvig Åberg (28-1): Åberg is seen as a future major champion, yet his results have been inconsistent. He has made three cuts without finishing lower than T12, but he’s also experienced early exits in several majors. His potential echoes the struggles of a young Rahm, making him an intriguing prospect.
8. Viktor Hovland (30-1): After missing the cut last year, Hovland has shown better performances in his other Open starts. He’s part of the elite group of players still searching for a major victory and has improved his play, making him a strong candidate for success at The Open.
9. Tyrrell Hatton (30-1): Hatton is often thrilling to watch, having contended at the U.S. Open before facing setbacks. Recently, he has maintained steadiness in major tournaments, indicating growth in managing his emotional gameplay. His presence on the leaderboard promises an exciting finish.
Who will secure the title at The Open Championship, and which underdogs might surprise the golfing community? Discover projected outcomes and top bets at SportsLine, guided by a model with a strong track record in golf majors.
