Rory McIlroy faces challenges ahead of 154th Open Championship
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 13, 2026, 7:18 AM
Last updated Jul 13, 2026
The 154th Open Championship begins at Royal Birkdale, marking its return since 2017. Rory McIlroy seeks to improve upon his recent major performances after a strong start to the season. Bryson DeChambeau aims to avoid missing the cut in all four majors this year. World number one Scottie Scheffler hopes to defend his title, while the course presents new challenges due to recent renovations. English players including Aaron Rai and Justin Rose are also in contention.
- •The Open starts on July 13 at Royal Birkdale, its 11th hosting.
- •McIlroy has had varied success in recent majors, finishing seventh at the PGA.
- •Scheffler seeks to be first to defend his Open title since 2008.
- •DeChambeau is in danger of missing cuts in all four majors this year.
- •Five holes at Birkdale have been redesigned since the last Open.
- 7:18 AMYahoo Sports — Can McIlroy find inspiration? Talking points ahead of the 154th Open
"The 154th Open Championship takes place at Royal Birkdale, which is hosting the tournament for an 11th time and first since 2017. Here, the Press Association looks at some of the issues ahead of the final major of the year visiting Southport.
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