Scottie Scheffler Makes a Splash at Royal Portrush
Scottie Scheffler began his round at the 2025 Open Championship at Royal Portrush just as a rainstorm hit. Those who played earlier enjoyed perfect scoring conditions, allowing for multiple birdies in the morning.
Despite sporadic rain and the challenges posed by the par 71 layout, Scheffler not only achieved the best score of the day but also recorded the finest round of his major championship career with a remarkable 7-under 64. “It was sunny during practice and then suddenly dark with pouring rain,” he noted. “Fortunately, the heavy rain only lasted for about four or five holes, and I capitalized on the good weather.”
Climbing the Leaderboard
Scheffler’s stellar performance skyrocketed him up the leaderboard, surpassing fellow major champions like Matt Fitzpatrick and Brian Harman. This round granted him his 19th career 36-hole lead on the PGA Tour and his fourth this season, reminding fans that this championship uniquely revolves around his skills.
As Fitzpatrick commented on the pressure Scheffler faces: “He’s an exceptional player and the world No. 1. It’s akin to what we saw with Tiger Woods; the expectation to win is on him.” Throughout this week, Scheffler has contemplated his journey as a three-time major champion, demonstrating his commitment to improvement, which led him to adopt a new putting technique this winter.
Jerry Harman’s Strong Play
Brian Harman showcased his relentless skill with a bogey-free 65, a repeat of the impressive score that solidified his lead in the 2023 Open Championship. He expressed excitement about possibly securing his second Claret Jug while remaining unfazed by media scrutiny regarding his personal interests outside of golf.
“I enjoy hunting and fishing,” Harman remarked, adding that he was surprised by the public’s curiosity. With consistent ball striking, he aims to tackle the challenging golf course layout while managing the inevitable difficulties it presents.
Hatton’s Relaxed Strategy
Tyrrell Hatton took a different approach to his preparation, opting for a relaxed evening with friends at a local pitch and putt. This laid-back attitude helped him as he opened with a strong round. He quipped about his post-golf routine, suggesting that having a few pints afterward makes for a better evening.
Hatton plans to carry this mindset into the weekend, expressing enjoyment in balancing competitive play with fun while remaining aware of the tournament’s challenges.
Rory McIlroy Aiming for Redemption
Rory McIlroy has made it into the weekend, a marked improvement over his 2019 performance at Portrush. With a few issues in his drive, he finds himself at 3 under par and eyeing a comeback. “I’ve improved and know how to perform in high-pressure situations,” he explained while highlighting the importance of starting strong on Saturday.
He also expressed gratitude for the support from fans, indicating that it has been a surreal experience to compete as a grand slam champion in front of a home crowd.
Sibling Rivalry on the Leaderboard
The weekend will be particularly engaging for the Hojgaard brothers, Rasmus and Nicolai, who are both in the top 10. Rasmus has taken the charge with a 5-under score while Nicolai trails by just one stroke. “It’s cool to see Rasmus play well,” said Nicolai, revealing a mix of pride and competition.
Despite their unique career paths, both brothers remain supportive, highlighting the camaraderie alongside their individual pursuits.
