The golf world converges on Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland for the final major championship of 2025: The Open Championship. This historic links course, which last hosted The Open in 2019, is poised to provide a stern test and a dramatic stage for determining the Champion Golfer of the Year.
Following a major season that has already delivered captivating narratives – Rory McIlroy completing the career grand slam at Augusta, Scottie Scheffler adding another major at the PGA Championship, and J.J. Spaun`s unexpected triumph at the U.S. Open at Oakmont – the stage is set for another memorable week on the rugged coastline.
While every player in the field dreams of hoisting the coveted Claret Jug, recent form, historical performance in majors, and suitability for links golf highlight a group of contenders most likely to be in the mix come Sunday. Let`s examine some of the key figures and storylines.
At the pinnacle remains World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. His consistent dominance is undeniable, making him a presumptive favorite anywhere he tees it up. However, his Open Championship record, while respectable (a T7 and T8 among four starts), hasn`t mirrored his utter command in other majors. The question for Scheffler is whether he can fully translate his stateside prowess to the unique demands of links golf at Portrush, a challenge that has historically proven tricky even for the game`s best.
Jon Rahm appears to be steadily building towards another major breakthrough. After a solid T7 finish at last year`s Open and strong showings in the PGA and U.S. Open this year, the Spaniard seems to have rediscovered the competitive fire and form that propelled him to previous major victories. His intense style and ability to grind could be perfectly suited for the unpredictable nature of a links test like Portrush.
The narrative surrounding Rory McIlroy`s return to his home country for The Open is impossible to ignore. The bitter taste of his missed cut here in 2019 lingers, but much has changed since. Now a career grand slam winner and fresh off a strong performance at the Scottish Open, McIlroy arrives with momentum and the fervent support of the local crowds. His emotional connection to this event and location could be a powerful force, provided he can manage the pressure and high expectations.
Links golf presents a fascinating puzzle for power players like Bryson DeChambeau. While he has two U.S. Open titles demonstrating his major pedigree, his Open Championship record includes multiple missed cuts alongside a single top-10. Watching DeChambeau attempt to dissect Portrush with his unique approach – balancing aggression with the need for precision and control demanded by the links – is always worth the price of admission, offering outcomes ranging from brilliant success to frustrating struggles.
The defending champion, Xander Schauffele, arrives at Portrush looking for his first win of the season. While he captured two majors last year, a rib injury and subsequent search for form have led to a relatively quiet 2025. His typically steady game, particularly his strong approach play, makes him a threat, but he`ll need to shore up other aspects of his game to replicate last year`s come-from-behind victory.
Shane Lowry`s emotional victory at Portrush in 2019 remains a defining moment. His return as a past champion and local favorite guarantees immense crowd support, an energy that undoubtedly fueled him six years ago. While his major performances this year have been mixed, he has shown flashes of form on the regular tour. The familiar surroundings and overwhelming positive reception could potentially elevate his game once more on this significant stage.
Predicting Viktor Hovland`s performance at any given major feels like a high-stakes guessing game. Capable of contending fiercely, as seen with his third-place finish at Oakmont, he can also miss cuts unexpectedly. His search for the perfect swing sometimes overshadows his undeniable talent. Portrush could either witness Hovland putting it all together or experiencing the frustrations that come with links golf when things are slightly off.
Collin Morikawa, an Open champion in 2021, possesses the elite ballstriking often considered paramount for links success. However, his putting continues to be a statistical weakness that has prevented him from converting strong tee-to-green play into victories this season. If his putter cooperates on Portrush`s undulating greens, his precise iron play could position him perfectly.
Dark horse candidates and links specialists also abound. Players like Tommy Fleetwood, whose game seems tailor-made for The Open, or Robert MacIntyre, who has proven comfortable and competitive on links layouts, could certainly factor. Accuracy-focused players such as Russell Henley or Corey Conners, less reliant on raw power, often find success when conditions prioritize placement and control over distance. The breakout season of Ben Griffin, with multiple wins and top-10s, adds another intriguing name to watch as he tackles his first Open.
Conversely, some accomplished players face significant questions. Brooks Koepka`s form appears inconsistent post-Oakmont. Justin Thomas has historically struggled at The Open, even at Portrush in 2019. Joaquín Niemann continues to dominate on the LIV circuit but has yet to consistently translate that success to major championships.
Royal Portrush demands creativity, adaptability, and resilience. The wind, the bunkers, the contours – all conspire to challenge every aspect of a player`s game and temperament. This year`s Open Championship promises not only a battle against the course but also a fascinating clash of form, history, and mental fortitude. The final major of 2025 is poised to deliver another unforgettable chapter in golf`s oldest championship.
