Open Championship 2025: Five-Way Tie Leads First Round

The first round of the 2025 Open Championship at Royal Portrush ended with a five-way tie for the lead at 4-under par, featuring Matt Fitzpatrick, Harris English, Jacob Skov Olesen, Christiaan Bezuidenhout, and Li Haotong. Rory McIlroy finished at 1-under after a late birdie, keeping himself in contention at the site of his 2019 disappointment. Thai golfer Sadom Kaewkanjana, a former monk, impressed with a 68, citing his Buddhist discipline as a factor in his focus. Challenging conditions led to long rounds, with several veteran players over 50, including Lee Westwood and Phil Mickelson, breaking par. Bryson DeChambeau struggled, carding a 78, as coverage continues with anticipation for further developments. The Open Championship will visit Royal Birkdale in 2026 and St. Andrews in 2027.