Live Coverage Update

The Open Championship’s final round at Royal Birkdale Golf Club is underway. Sam Burns leads by two strokes, entering today’s action.

Championship Background

The American golfer Sam Burns, after past disappointments at the U.S. Open, is keen on sealing his victory today. Follow the action with The Athletic’s comprehensive coverage.

Viewing Information

Time & Schedule: First group tees off at 2:40 a.m. ET / 7:40 a.m. BST.

Broadcast: Available on USA (U.S. – 4 a.m.) and Peacock (7 a.m. ET); in the UK, watch via Sky Sports.

Player Focus: Scottie Scheffler

Scottie Scheffler’s performance has been impacted by his putting challenges. His third-round score included 16 pars, one birdie, one bogey, and many missed birdie attempts. Scheffler’s putting ranks 135th at The Open with minus-2.98 strokes gained putting, even as he ranks 13th in greens in regulation.

DeChambeau’s Resilience

In the wake of a two-stroke penalty, Bryson DeChambeau remains a contender. He managed a 1-under 69 in his third round. Currently four shots behind Burns, DeChambeau remains a key player to watch.

Expectations for Sam Burns

Sam Burns arrives at this pivotal moment, looking to secure his first major despite previous close calls. With a two-shot lead, his chance to take the championship is real. Burns shares details about how the birth of his daughter Belle allowed him to participate, defying initial expectations.

Course Insights

Royal Birkdale, with its new additions, offers a challenging yet picturesque setting. Its 7,223-yard layout includes significant changes like the rebuilt seventh and new 14th and 15th holes. The course’s seaside location can impact games due to coastal winds.

Tee Times

Early tee times in Eastern Time:

• 2:40 a.m.: Jesper Svensson, Keegan Bradley
• 2:50 a.m.: Matthew Southgate, Laurie Canter
• 3:00 a.m.: Jack McDonald, Ben Griffin

Additional tee times continue through the morning.

Recent Open Winners

Since 2015, no golfer has won The Open more than once. Recent champions include Scottie Scheffler (2025) and Xander Schauffele (2024).

The Open’s Host Venues

Royal Birkdale joins an elite list of past venues like Royal Portrush and St. Andrews, having hosted The Open 11 times since 1954.

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