Sport: Golf Country: England Category: Scores & Results

England's golfers prepare for The Open amid World Cup dilemma

Sky Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 15, 2026, 5:29 AM

Last updated Jul 15, 2026

England's golfers prepare for The Open amid World Cup dilemma

Summary

As The Open begins at Royal Birkdale on Thursday, England's golfers are balancing their focus on major championship aspirations with the backdrop of the national football team's World Cup semi-final against Argentina. With no English winner since Sir Nick Faldo in 1992, the 21 competitors aim for a breakthrough. Players like Matt Fitzpatrick and Justin Rose reflect on the challenge of preparing for a high-stakes golf tournament while also wanting to support the football team. Tee times are affected, with some players opting for late starts to follow the match.

Source Links

Sky Sports

By the Numbers

•The Open starts on Thursday at Royal Birkdale.
•No Englishman has won The Open since 1992.
•Twenty-one English golfers are competing this year.
•Matt Fitzpatrick and others are adjusting tee times to watch the World Cup.
•Players discuss the importance of balancing competition and support for the football team.

What they're saying

"
In a week where England look to end their 60-year wait for World Cup glory, the nation’s golfers also aim break their own lengthy winless run at The Open.
— Sky Sports

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