Scottie Scheffler was the pre-tournament favorite entering the 2025 Open Championship, but Rory McIlroy was the big story as he looked to put the heartbreak from 2019 in the past and capture the Claret Jug in his home country of Northern Ireland.

The Open enforced stricter drop zones to end old tactics, challenging players with tougher relief options at Royal Portrush.

There is a five-way tie for the lead after the first round of the 153rd Open Championship with Jacob Skov Olesen, Haotong Li, Matt Fitzpatrick, Christiaan Bezuidenhout and Harris English shooting 4-under 67 Thursday at Royal Portrush. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler (68) is one back with home favorite Rory McIlroy (70) three off the pace.

The winner stands to earn a healthy cash reward despite The Open lagging behind the other three majors for prize money

Players and spectators will want to keep an umbrella or poncho handy as golf's final major continues through Sunday in Northern Ireland.Fast FactsThe 153rd edition of The Open Championship is being hosted at Royal Portrush Golf Club on the Northern Ireland coast,

STAMFORD, Conn. – July 18, 2025 – NBC Sports presented exclusive second-round coverage of the 153 rd Open Championship from Royal Portrush Golf Club in Portrush, Northern Ireland, across USA Network and Peacock, capped by Golf Central Live From the Open studio coverage on GOLF Channel and Peacock.

Scottie Scheffler is living up to his status as the top favorite to win the Open Championship by taking the lead after the second round.

Tyrrell Hatton is a combustible English golfer who can divide opinion with his on-course conduct. He curses out loud, he slams his clubs, he castigates himself and his ball.