The oldest golf tournament in the world is back for its 154th edition, and ESPN had live updates of the first round throughout the day.
This year, The Open heads to Royal Birkdale in Southport, where a course that has spent the last few weeks being burnt to a crisp promises some seriously dramatic links golf.
- How to watch The Open in the UK: TV channel, schedule, tee times, prize money
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- The Open Leaderboard -- ESPN
After Rory McIlroy added a second Green Jacket to his collection at The Masters back in April, he is looking to double his collection of Claret Jugs, having claimed his first at Royal Liverpool back in 2014.
But he's going to have his work cut out for him if he's going to do so after a difficult first day in which he finished with a two-over 72. Also standing in his way is the defending Champion Golfer of the Year Scottie Scheffler.
Despite failing to make the cut at a professional golf tournament for the first time in nearly four years at the Scottish Open last week, the American is expected to be there or thereabouts again this year, and had a successful first day at two under par.
Much is also expected of hometown hero Tommy Fleetwood. The Southport native has never won a major before but this weekend arguably offers him his best ever chance, with a detailed understanding of the course and the support of the home fans on his side. He finished one under par.
The course itself could yet prove an advantage for Matt Fitzpatrick, who was the highest-ranked Brit last year and whose game -- which prioritises control and precision over raw power -- suits links golf perfectly. But he struggled on Friday, finishing at two over par.
