Fleetwood rallies late while Rose struggles on opening day at British Open
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 16, 2026, 10:10 PM
Last updated Jul 16, 2026
Tommy Fleetwood finished strong with two late birdies for a round of 69 during the first day of the British Open at Royal Birkdale. Justin Rose had a disappointing start, shooting 75 after making seven bogeys. Matt Fitzpatrick, despite being a top contender, also struggled with a 72 in challenging conditions. Aaron Rai shot 71 as part of the English contingent aiming for a first British Open champion from England since 1992. Dan Brown and Jordan Smith found themselves in the top 20 with scores of 66 and 68, respectively.
- •Tommy Fleetwood shot 69, rallying with two birdies in the final holes.
- •Justin Rose's 75 places him 135th after a rough round.
- •Matt Fitzpatrick recorded a 72 in tough afternoon conditions.
- •Dan Brown is tied for second place with a score of 66.
- •Jordan Smith is sharing 13th place after shooting 68.
- 10:10 PMYahoo Sports — Fleetwood rallies late but Rose falters as English contingent makes sluggish start at British Open
"On paper, the English have put up a strong cast of contenders at Royal Birkdale this week in a bid to have a first British Open champion since 1992 and a first winner on English soil since Tony Jacklin in 1969. The guy who's only behind Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy in the rankings was part of the afternoon wave which had to deal with a stronger wind and firmer fairways, and never looked happy in shooting a 2-over 72. Aaron Rai, seeking a second major title of 2026 after the PGA Championship, shot 71.
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